Southern Sonoma Country Life

A Visit to John Muir's House — A Call to Connect with the Great Outdoors, in Martinez, California

"When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe."
—John Muir

Scottish born Father of the National Parks, John Muir, also known as "John of the Mountains" is best remembered an American naturalist, author, environmental philosopher, botanist, zoologist, glaciologist and early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States.

He was also a Bay Area fruit rancher, family man and writer. It was his impassioned writings that convinced the U.S. government to protect Yosemite, Sequoia, Grand Canyon and Mt. Rainier as national parks.

Photos: Frances Rivetti

What better way to discover more about the man and his magnificent achievements than to visit the place he called home for the last several decades of his life? Before I launch into the fascinating Victorian house and orchards that provide such a glimpse into the inner workings of his mind from his position on the home front, I must confess that until I opened a WhatsApp message from a long-time adventurous and outdoorsy friend in the UK, I was unaware of the John Muir House, straddling the edge of the city of Martinez, just an hour's drive from my home in Sonoma County.

"The one thing I must do when I visit is go see the John Muir House," messaged may pal since our teens, London-based Marnie Rose. "Okay," I replied, followed by a quick online search. "We can do that." Marnie's visit was an inpromtu one, following her recent retirement as founder and Director of The Garden Classroom an outstanding, Islington, London-based charity connecting people with nature. 

Marnie is readying for a new chapter in her visionary work. She's planning on consulting in the 'field' of outdoor connection. In the meantime, connecting with her inspirational hero, John Muir, in the house he called home, was top of her list on a trip to California. 

"I heard that there's a wonderful, old pub in the redwoods next to the house," she said, on arrival. "The Silicon Valley tech guy who sat next to me on the plane said it's a great place for lunch."  

"We have to book ahead for transport," she added.

It all started to make sense. It did sound extra appealing to the uninitiated as to the size of the Bay Area. Muir Woods. The Pelican Inn. Easy to assume Muir's  house would be located in neighboring coastal Marin County. I broke it to her kindly that in actual fact, we'd be making a trip over to the east bay through industrial zones of the north Bay to pay homage to the man in his austere hilltop Victorian — a national historic site owned and operated by the National Park Service, some 57 miles from Muir Woods National Monument, which, in turn, is operated by Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. I had to admit, it was all a little confusing for someone from out of state. No redwood forest, no tavern in the trees. But intriguing, none-the-less.

I assured her that we probably wouldn't run into any trouble parking at the John Muir House on a weekday visit. I wasn't sure how popular an attraction it is, but given its location, I doubted the parking lot would be full. As it turned out, there was one other car parked upon our arrival. A contrast to the regular tour buses pulling up at his namesake woods. 

Muir was born in 1938, in Dunbar, Scotland. His early years were marked by a strict upbringing, with a father who enforced rigorous discipline. As a child, he found solace and joy in the Scottish countryside, where his nature-loving grandfather would take him on long walks, nurturing an early appreciation for the natural world.

The Muir family immigrated to the United States in 1849, settling on a farm in Wisconsin. The vast and untamed American wilderness became young John Muir's new playground and classroom. In 1860, he enrolled at the University of Wisconsin, studying biology, botany and geology, disciplines that would become the academic foundation for his future explorations and conservation efforts.

In the words of the National Park Service: "John Muir was a visionary whose deep love for nature transformed the American landscape and the way people interact with the natural world. Through his passionate writings and relentless advocacy, Muir inspired a generation to see the world differently, urging the protection of wild places for the enjoyment of all. His work was instrumental in the establishment of the National Park Service and laid the foundation for the modern conservation movement, making him one of the most influential environmentalists in history.

Muir’s philosophy was revolutionary: he believed that all living things are interconnected and that humans are just one small part of a larger, intricate ecosystem. He valued the natural world not only for its economic benefits but also for its beauty, tranquility, and ability to heal the human spirit. His advocacy for preserving wild spaces was driven by a profound belief that these areas should be set aside for everyone, not just the privileged few."

Muir was an inventor, bringing a scientific curiosity to his later explorations. He immersed himself in all aspects of wild places, noticing and recording the interactions between plant, animal and planet. He was one of the first to suggest that wild places are not a resource to be exploited by humans, but have an intrinsic value all of their own. We've learned through his ideology, though there is clearly much more work to be done, especially now, that we humans are a part of nature, rather than having dominion over it.

The Strentzel/Muir house was constructed in 1882 by Dr. John Strentzel, Muir's father-in-law. The Muir family moved in following Dr. Strentzel's death in 1890. This grand home served as John Muir's residence for the final 24 years of his life, a haven of both his personal and family history.

There's a busy carriageway not far behind the property nowadays. Though Muir would not approve of the traffic hurtling noisily by, he would surely be delighted that the home in which he raised his family and rested his head was salvaged and preserved by a forward-thinking family after standing empty for many years. Two world wars would've made running an orchard and maintaining a home of this size a challenge and many grand, old Victorian homes were razed around the Bay Area in the 1950s and 60s. 

We headed into historic downtown Martinez for lunch after our visit. Marnie was charmed by its unimposing, western atmosphere. A woman returning to her car that was parked in front of my vehicle asked if I'd like to move into her space and make use of the money still on the parking meter. I asked her for a lunch place recommendation and she directed us down a few blocks to . 

"People are so nice out here," Marnie commented. "It took you all of five minutes to find free parking and lunch?" Much as I love London, I forget how small town my life is here in the far-flung outreaches of the Bay Area, at least by comparison. 

Our cheerful server at Roxx on Main Street  shared stories of the old Muir home, how it had been the hang-out pad for partying. When it came into the hands of the National Park Service in 1964, members of the Muir family who remembered it well, consulted on its restoration to as close to its original decor and contents as possible.

It was a hot September day for a visit, so we arrived at opening time, to beat the heat. I'd expected the house to be positioned deeper into the park, but it is in fact, a short walk from the small visitors center next to the parking lot and perched on a knoll with a commanding view of Alhambra Valley.

The house was nice and cool inside, a 17-room, 10,000-square-foot, two-story mansion with 12-foot high ceilings, embodying the late Victorian Italianate style. It was designed by architects Wolfe and Son and built by contractors Sylvester and Langabee. We climbed up to the attic, with its distinctive cupola atop its roof. 

The house cost over $20,000 to build and furnish, boasted modern conveniences such as indoor plumbing and gas lighting. A telephone was installed as early as 1885. Muir added an electrical system shortly before his death in 1914. Water for the plumbing was obtained from rainwater collected from the roof or pumped from three nearby wells, stored in redwood tanks in the attic. 

On Ranger advice, we wandered the orchard, but did not venture over to nearby trails as temperatures were too high for safety. Trails are not easily accessible, so best not to plan a hike during the more intense weather months. It was a treat to visit this important landmark with someone so passionate about the outdoors. May the spirit of John Muir inspire my dear friend Marnie to create new and exciting opportunities back in the UK for people to experience fresh air and nature.

Incidentally, the gravesite where John Muir and his family members are buried is open to Monday through Friday from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, encompassing 1.27 acres on part of a nearby 13-acre property purchased by Dr. Strentzel in 1853. This cemetery is typical of thousands of small family cemeteries scattered across rural America. Ranger-led tours of the site are available on Saturdays and Sundays when staff is available. Reservations are required to visit his gravesite as it is located on private property. Muir and his wife's headstone is constructed of Black Academy Granite with Raymond Granite bases, featuring a thistle, the national emblem of Scotland.

If you go:

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, there's something here for you. Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian home where the Strentzel and Muir families lived, stroll through the lush orchards and (weather permitting) lose yourself in the tranquility of over 360 acres of trails on nearby Mount Wanda. As you walk in Muir's footsteps, you can also visit the Strentzel/Muir Gravesite, a place of quiet reflection. Each corner of this site tells a story, inviting you to connect with the landscapes and values that shaped Muir's life and work. There's a good bookstore/giftshop on site offering plentiful gifts for literature and nature lovers alike. 

What to See and Do

• Explore the Historic Home: Tour the historic home of John Muir, where you can learn about his life, work, and legacy.
• Wander the Grounds: Enjoy the beautiful grounds, featuring a variety of plants and trees that Muir himself cultivated.
• Hiking Trails: Take a hike on one of the nearby trails to experience the natural beauty that inspired Muir.
• Visitor Center: Start your visit at the Visitor Center to gather information, view exhibits, and watch an introductory film about John Muir.

Tips for Your Visit

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: There is plenty of walking involved, so be sure to wear comfortable footwear.
• Bring Water and Snacks: Although there are no food services on-site, you are welcome to bring your own.
• Check the Weather: Be prepared for the weather conditions on the day of your visit.

The John Muir National Historic Site is open seven days a week from 10 am to 5 pm.

4202 Alhambra Ave
Martinez, CA 94553

Phone:

925 228-8860

Exploring the Outer Limits of the Pacific — An All-Women's Whale Watch Tour to the Lost World of the Farallon Islands

photos: Oceanic Society and Chloë Green

On a clear day, it is possible to see the blurry outline of a cluster of some 20 islets rising from the line of the horizon, some 28 miles out into the Pacific Ocean, beyond San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge.

California Biodiversity Day, September 7th, 2024 was not one of those days to start off with, but after a few hours out on the water, the approach to the Farallon Islands revealed close to ideal viewing conditions. 

Nowadays, the Farallon Islands are part of a National Wildlife Refuge within the 3,295 square miles of Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. The islands of mystery, otherwise known as the Galapagos of San Francisco are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and are strictly off limits to the public. 

As a three-decade-plus Californian, I've long-since been fascinated by the fog-shrouded lore of this iconic outpost, known, not surprisingly, to the region's first people as the Islands of the Dead. Generations of native Americans endangered their lives and/or perished in pursuit of a perilous access to its far-flung, food-rich, rocky terrain.

Elizabethan England's privateer and explorer, Sir Francis Drake is believed to have successfully moored his galleon, The Golden Hinde in order to explore the islands briefly in search of much needed replenishing of meat and eggs in 1579, during his circumnavigation of the world. Though he took the liberty of naming the craggy outpost as the "Islands of St. James", it was around a quarter of a century later, that Spanish expedition captain Friar Antonio de la Asuncion described the string of seven islands in his diary as "Farallones", Spanish for steep rock or cliff.

Today, the Farallones offer a rare study of early California.

What appear as islands are in actual fact, the higher peaks of a submerged mountain range — composed of granite bedrock, believed to originate from the southern Sierra Nevadas. It's incredible to think that this isolated, rocky outpost has been separated from the mainland for over 10,000 years.

What we see a return to in this protective era, is a globally important hotspot for marine biodiversity, especially known for breaching humpback whales, abundant seals and sea lions, a large and diverse seabird population and the hunting grounds of great white sharks. 

When I spotted a post on a friend's social media linking to an all-woman expedition, a September day trip to the Farallones during whale watching season, I jumped at the chance and signed myself up, along with a couple of intrepid girlfriends, who followed suit. 

The naturalist-led day trip was chartered by women's dive brand company Moon Scuba with the Ross-based Oceanic Society at the helm. The Oceanic Society has been leading trips to the Farallon Islands since 1972, exploring the beauty, biodiversity and rich history of the Islands, while providing essential information for those planning to visit the Department of Fish and Game's remarkable wildlife sanctuary.

Navigating the waters around the Farallon islands is extremely dangerous. Quick-moving currents can sweep boats onto the rocks, where the Pacific pounds them into oblivion, and during storms waves can get so big they've swallowed boats whole. Heading out with the experts was reassuring!

Photos: Frances Rivetti

Moon Scuba is a California design-forward dive brand and community. "We focus on providing gear, tools and experiences for women to facilitate connection and advocacy for our ocean," explains Co-Founder Chloë Green. "We're re-envisioning our gear, experiences and digital tools to help people engage with blue spaces, opening up access to a sport that has historically prioritized men. We're in business to inspire ocean advocacy."

As part of Moon Scuba's mission to facilitate connection with the ocean, the team hosts engaging, meaningful trips such as this all-woman tour of the Farallones, in addition to wildlife tours, snorkeling and diving at all levels. Since I've yet to take up scuba diving and these waters west of the Golden Gate Bridge are not the spot for a dip, I enjoyed the chance to get to know this adventurous and welcoming group simply by suiting up in my waterproofs for a place on the Oceanic Society's Outer Limits boat. 

I must admit to having been a little nervous the night before. Would I cope with the continual motion? If the wind picked up would I have enough layers under my waterproofs to stay warm? Lots of thoughts ran through my mind in the wee hours, some more dramatic than others. We 33 women guests were instructed to take a travel sickness pill the night before so as to have it in our system and not be too drowsy at the 8.30 am start of the trip. Although I didn't sleep much that night, Dramamine original worked well for me once on board. And as far as I could tell, we all appeared to fare remarkably well.  

We'd met up at the harbor in San Francisco's Marina, where veteran Oceanic Society expedition naturalists gave us the run-down on where we were headed and what we could hope to see. Fellow British American and long-time San Franciscan, Peter Winch was not at all intimidated by this eclectic company of animated women and proved a treasure trove of knowledge and enthusiasm for all things oceanic throughout our voyage through the Golden Gate.  

Morning fog lifted after the first few hours. It was super atmospheric voyaging beneath the fog-shrouded Golden Gate Bridge.

Our naturalists hoped it would be a decent day for sightings. Nobody, however, naturalists included, had any expectation of the remarkable experience that was awaiting us. Before we even arrived at the Farallones and still in the plankton-rich waters before the drop off to deep ocean, more than a dozen breaching humpback whales delighted everyone on board with an awe-inspiring display of aquatic gymnastics. And on our way back, even more, up to 15 or so whales at a time created what felt to me like the ultimate in wildlife theater, in a 360 degree spectacle of beauty, grace and playfulness. 

I wondered whether the whales were drawn to the female energy of our expedition! I'd like to think so. 

This is what we saw: 

50 Humpback Whales 

Hundreds of California Sea Lions

Juvenile Mola Molas (Sunfish)

Common Porpoises

Harbor Seals

Steller Sea Lions

Earless Seals

Tufted Puffins

Rhinoceros Auklets

Black Oyster Catchers

Black-footed Albatross

Brown Pelicans

Brandt's Cormorants

Pelagic Cormorants

Sooty Shearwaters

Pink-Footed Shearwaters

Red-Necked Phalaropes

Common Murres

Cassin's Auklets

Ochre Sea Stars

Bull Kelp

Jellyfish

Our approach to the islands co-oincided with lunch time, delicious sandwiches and salads enjoyed on still waters.

A definitive hush fell over us as we cruised around the islands. Nobody much fancied the idea of being marooned. Peter explained how even walking on the islands is dangerous given slippy conditions and holes in the rock. He described the Farallones in spring as being coated in green and extremely noisy, as a cacophony of seabirds nest and raise their young. 

I learned that the great white shark cruises the islands on the hunt for juvenile elephant seals returning to the rocks with their mothers. Apparently the juveniles have a high fat content and are top of the oceanic menu for sharks. That made me sad, despite the laws of nature, given the level of protection of elephant seals during birthing season in the early months of the year out at Point Reyes National Seashore. 

The following quote from an account written by Zackhar Chichinoff, a Russian living on the main island in the 1820s, captures the extreme conditions of this remote region.

"A schooner took us down to the islands but we had to cruise around for over a week before we could make a landing. We had a few planks with us and some canvas, and with that we built huts for shelter. The water was very bad also, being taken from hollow places in the rocks where it stood all the year round. We had no fire-arms, the sea lions were killed with clubs or spears. Scurvy broke out among us and in a short time all were sick except myself. All the next winter we passed there in great misery and when the spring came the men were too weak to kill sea-lions, and all we could do was to crawl around the cliffs and gather some sea birds’ eggs and suck them raw."

Despite the extraordinary miserable living conditions and basic weaponry, settlers killed an estimated 200,000 fur seals on the Farallons in a few, short and bloody years.

According to KQED's Bay Curious reporting: "By 1834 the fur seal population was decimated. The animals that survived abandoned the island. It would be 140 years before they were seen on the island again; in the 1970s, a few fur seals started to return to the island. The first pup was spotted in 1996, and since then the population has continued to grow. In 2019, Point Blue Conservation Science reported that about 2,000 pups are born on the island each year."

By the time of the Gold Rush, food scarcity prompted the more daring of San Francisco's Barbary Coast to venture out to the Farallones in search of supplies. What they discovered were eggs, the Farallon Islands being the largest seabird nesting colony south of Alaska.

Author Mildred Hoover wrote a book about the islands, published by Stanford University Press in 1932. In it, she described: "There was one essential item in the equipment of the workers – a loose fitting jacket with capacious pockets inside the front. At a given signal, the day’s operations began: every man started on the run for a favored spot among the nests. … When the loose-fronted jackets were full of eggs the men descended the slippery rocks with care to deposit their booty in hidden baskets – hidden because of the Gulls. Accidents were not unknown and to fall while wearing a coat full of eggs delayed the worker at least long enough to wash out the pockets with cold sea water."

It was estimated that by the 1950s, half a million eggs were being pilfered from the wild each year. Bird populations suffered. The federal government eventually ruled all commercial eggers off the islands.

According to the Bay Curious report, there are as many as 400 ship and airplane wrecks in the depths of the Greater Farallones sanctuary. (Many airplanes flying low beneath the fog belt having run into the islands’ rocky peaks.)

A lighthouse was built at the top of Southeast Farallon Island in 1855 as was one of the first on the West Coast. Four lighthouse keepers and their families somehow lived simultaneously on the island in two Victorian duplexes in order to keep the light in operation. At one point their were nine men, five women and five children in residence. It must've been like serving a dangerous, isolated and monotonous prison sentence. U.S. Coast Guard took over the lighthouse in 1939 and it operated until 1972. The houses remain and are used by scientists and wildlife biologists today. 

It took until the 1970s before a small population of fur seals returned to islands. The first pup was spotted in 1996, and scientists now estimate around 2,000 pups being born on the highly protected island each year.

An intrepid seven-hour ocean journey out to the Farallons and back to San Francisco may not be for everyone. I was extremely fortunate to pick a good-weather day with an unexpected abundance of whale and wildlife sightings. My only regret is that I didn't take a camera with a good zoom. Cell phone cameras did not do our sightings justice. It was hard to balance while trying to take snapshots. I'm grateful to Moon Scuba and the Oceanic Society for the great photos at the top of the post and for an unforgettable adventure.  

Here's a terrific video from KQED to take you there without the boat ride!

 

Click here to learn more about California Biodiversity Day. 

 

Frances Rivetti is a British Americaan freelancw writer based in Petaluma, Sonoma County. She is the author of four books: Fog Valley Crush, Love at First Bite, At Home in the California Farmstead Frontier; Fog Valley Winter, Pionner Heritage, Backroad Rambles and Pioneer Recipes; Big Green Country and The House on Liberty Street. She is at work on her third novel, Floating in the Middle, which is set against the coastal erosion backdrop of Sonoma Coast. Follow her on social media on

Facebook.

Instagram

and her author website. 

Big News for Hig Island Oysters Sonoma County Fans — THE First Street PETALUMA PICK-UP WINDOW is Launched for Live shellfish, Local Fin Fish To-Go

THE PETALUMA PICK-UP WINDOW, Down by the River on First Street, Petaluma 

Live shellfish, local fin fish, and more to-go

415-390-4219

Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Days

Order oysters and seafood online, then drop by to pick up.

The newest addition to the legendary Hog Island family, its Petaluma Pick-Up Window offers a wide variety of seafood and Hog Island favorites for pick up—freshly harvested oysters and shellfish, (West Coast) local fin fish, merch and farm kitchen goodies.

Picking up is easy: Just place your order online, select your pick-up day, and swing by the Petaluma Pick-Up Window with your name and order number to grab your fresh seafood and Hog Island nibbles. Please note, you’ll need to pick up your order on the date you requested. Your fresh seafood will be (eagerly) waiting for you, and the folk at Hog Island can’t hold onto them for more than a day.

419 1st St Suite B, Petaluma, CA 94952

415-390-4219

[email protected]

For more information about Local Pick-Up, please refer to Hog Island Oysters Local Pick-Up Policy, here.

For info on shucking and handling live shellfish, click here.

Fall Season Events At McEvoy Ranch

It may not be sweater weather yet, but it's on its way in a month or so. The 2024 autumnal equinox happens on September 22nd, this year, though we generally enjoy warm weather day time temperatures through mid to late October here in Sonoma and Marin Counties. There's so much to savor and enjoy in the pre-holiday season and one of the most spectacular, tucked-away spots on the two county border is beautiful McEvoy Ranch. 

Check out the following line up of fun and tasty events out at the ranch through early December. 

Labor Day Tasting Promo! 2 for 1 Olive Oil Tastings

9/2 | 11 – 5 pm

Join ftye McEvoy team for a guided tasting of  award-winning, certified organic Extra Virgin and agrumato-method olive oils! Enjoy a flight of 5 olive oils served with fresh local bread. Promo available on Monday, 9/2 only.

Book Now

 

McEvoy Ranch x Hog Island Seafood Dinner

October 5th | 5 pm

Tickets: $195 per person

This event promises an unforgettable culinary experience, combining the finest olive oils and wines from McEvoy Ranch with the freshest seafood from Hog Island. Guests will indulge in a four-course wine and olive oil paired seafood dinner, while enjoying insights from industry leaders including President of McEvoy Ranch Samantha Dorsey, Chef and Hog Island Cookbook Author John Ash, and Hog Island Oyster Co. Founding Partner/CEO John Finger. The evening will conclude with a book signing with Chef John Ash.

Book Now

 

NEW! Olio Nuovo Experience

November 16th | 11:30 am

Tickets: Coming Soon!

Embark on a sensory journey — an inaugural Olio Nuovo Experience, led by McEvoy President, Samantha Dorsey.

Guests will begin by picking their own olives in the orchard, running them through the  mill and then tasting the Olio Nuovo moments after the olives are crushed. This experience culminates in a delightful lunch featuring Olio Nuovo, paired with McEvoy's small-lot wines.

This exclusive event is a must for olive oil enthusiasts.

 

Community Mill Day

November 17th | 8 am, 9 am, 10 am

Price: $1.50 Per Pound

Community Mill Day is one of the ranch team's favorite days of the year! On November 17th, the team will gather with small growers from across Northern California as they bring their freshly picked olives to the mill to create a true regional blend of olive oil. Crops are combined to mill a seasonally unique Extra Virgin Olive Oil that is never disappoints. Come with your own backyard olives and join for this seasonal festivity!

Book Now

 

Holiday Wreath Making Workshop

December 6th - 8th | 11 am or 2 pm

Tickets: $185 per person

Immerse yourself in the magic of the season at a festive wreath-making workshop in the Greenhouse. Create a stunning, personalized holiday masterpiece using fresh, foraged greenery from McEvoy's very own garden. Savor a glass of wine or your preferred non-alcoholic beverage while indulging in a delicious boxed lunch. This enchanting event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season!

Book Now

Sonoma County Wine Celebration Live Charity Auction Lots Revealed Bid in Person or Remotely by Proxy on September 21

Photos: Sonoma County Vintner's Foundation

The Sonoma County Vintners Foundation (SCVF) has revealed this year’s live auction lots for the charitable Sonoma County Wine Celebration (SCWC). The three days of reimagined events take place September 19-21, with the live auction taking place on Saturday, September 21 at Chateau St. Jean. 

Proxy bidding is available for anyone to bid from anywhere in the world. Event proceeds will benefit Sonoma County nonprofits through SCVF Community Grants and Emergency Relief Fund. View the live auction lots, purchase event tickets and register for proxy bidding at SoCoWineCelebration.com.

A selection of 40 live auction lots ranging from curated rare wine collections and once-in-a-lifetime trips to all-inclusive wine and culinary experiences include:

Lot 7: Harry Hamlin, The King of Bolognese Dinner
Actor Harry Hamlin and his niece, Chef Renee Guilbault of the critically acclaimed cooking show “In the Kitchen with Harry Hamlin” on AMC+ / IFC, along with Donald Patz of Maritana Vineyards and his wife Jung Min Lee, will come to your home and prepare a complete dinner featuring Harry’s famous Bolognese sauce and wines selected by Donald Patz. You’ll also receive 60 bottles of a special cuvée of 2023 Pinot Noir by Maritana Vineyards, created by Harry Hamlin and Donald Patz exclusively for this auction lot.

Lot 8: Barefoot Elegance, Private Island Caribbean Getaway
Francis Ford Coppola invites you to visit his private island for a once-in-a-lifetime Caribbean experience! Your party of up to six people will spend three extraordinary nights on the island of Coral Caye, a private island retreat behind the world-famous Belize Barrier Reef, and two nights at Sofia Coppola’s beach house at Turtle Inn in Belize.

Lot 12: The Bicoastal Good Life
Enjoy the good life on both coasts with experiences in both California and Maine! Travel to Cape Neddick, Maine, for a three-night stay for two couples at the luxurious Cliff House hotel. Next, travel to Merriam Vineyards in Healdsburg, California for a single vineyard wine tasting and tour for six guests at their beautiful winery.

Lot 14: Animo, Golden Bear Station and More, with Wine Pairings from Three Sticks & Hamel
For one night only, up to 30 lucky couples can secure seats for this amazing wine and culinary collaboration! Savor treats from Joshua Smookler and Heidy He’s latest restaurant concept Golden Bear Station, combined with favorites from Animo, in a four-course menu, expertly paired with Three Sticks and Hamel Family wines.

Lot 15: The Masters
Experience The Masters golf tournament, one of the most elusive sporting events to attend! Tickets to this annual event are extremely limited but you and a guest will have two badges (tickets) each day for two days of your choosing. You’ll also enjoy a specially curated 12-bottle wine collection from Ramey Wine Cellars.

Lot 19: Sip, Savor & Speed
Join ACTA Wine, your personal hosts at the 2025 Celebration Exotic Car Show, Friday March 28 to Sunday March 30, 2025! The premier exotic car festival in North America will awe attendees as it showcases North America’s largest collection of exotic cars, race cars, Hollywood movie cars, along with iconic actors and celebrities.

Lot 22: VIP Songwriters in Paradise
Here’s your chance to be a VIP at one of the most exclusive music festivals in the world! You and three friends will groove to four nights of incredible music at four different wineries during the July 2025 Songwriters in Paradise in Healdsburg, California. During your stay in wine country, your group of four will also enjoy a two-night stay at Vintners Resort and a special wine country lunch with Lando Wines proprietors, Sam and Jennifer Lando, at their home.

Lot 26: Fund-A-Need Paddle Raise
A key focus for this year’s Fund-A-Need paddle raise will benefit the critically impactful K-3 Proficiency Project from the nonprofit K-3 Innovation, which has seen tremendous results in increasing literacy in Sonoma County school children. In addition, proceeds from this critical fundraising lot will continue to provide impactful assistance for children’s education and literacy while also addressing new challenges our county faces.

Lot 30: Somm Stars and Goodnight’s Prime Steak and Spirits Sunday Supper
Your party of six will enjoy an exclusive, Sunday Somm Stars Dinner at Goodnight’s Prime Steak and Spirits in Healdsburg, CA! Your evening will be filled with a little British swagger, co-hosted by beloved Bay Area food and wine personality Liam Mayclem and Chef David Lawrence, who will be preparing the brilliant multi-course meal. Your specially selected wine pairings and presentation of elite wines from the Foley Family Wines & Spirits portfolio will be presented by Jason Dannewitz along with Chris Sawyer “Sommelier to the Stars” and his celebrity sommelier team.

Full live auction lot descriptions, event programming and ticket details for the new Sonoma County Wine Celebration are available at SoCoWineCelebration.com. Proxy bidding is available for the live auction on September 21. Contact [email protected] or 707.522.5829 for details. To learn more about SCVF Community Grants, the Emergency Relief Fund, recent beneficiaries, or to make a donation to this year’s Fund-A-Need paddle raise, visit sonomawine.com/foundation.

About Sonoma County Wine Celebration
Sonoma County Wine Celebration brings the region’s renowned winemakers and growers together with distinguished collectors and generous bidders for an opportunity to acquire some of Sonoma County’s top wines and bid on incredible travel experiences. Named one of the nation’s top charitable auctions by Wine Spectator, the proceeds raised benefit local Sonoma County charitable organizations. Since its inception, the auction has raised millions of dollars to help fund charitable organizations focusing on literacy, education, health & human services, the environment, arts & culture, and has supported more nonprofits than any other fundraising event in Sonoma County. Learn more at SoCoWineCelebration.com.

 

About Sonoma County Vintners Foundation
Sonoma County Vintners Foundation provides support to the local community through philanthropy and charitable giving. Sonoma County Vintners Foundation (SCVF) is an accredited 501c(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1988. Its purpose is to consistently support local nonprofit organizations that address issues within the Sonoma County community. SCVF cultivates a vibrant and diverse Sonoma County by elevating lives through charitable events and philanthropic giving. Fundraising efforts have a direct impact in the areas of education & literacy, health & human services, the environment and arts & culture. With SCVF’s many initiatives including the Emergency Relief Fund, the organization is able to impact all needs, ranging from the immediate to the long term. Learn more at sonomawine.com/foundation.

About Foley Family Wines & Spirits
Established by Bill Foley in 1996, Foley Family Wines & Spirits (FFWS) is a portfolio of highly acclaimed wines and spirits from some of the world’s greatest estates. The company owns more than 24 wineries and a distillery, each with its distinct style, legacy, and approach to hospitality. FFWS has expanded its portfolio significantly since its founding, now including such storied brands as Chalk Hill Estate Winery, Sebastiani, Roth, Banshee, Ferrari-Carano, Chateau St. Jean, and Lancaster in Sonoma; Merus, Silverado, and Foley Johnson in Napa Valley; Lincourt, Firestone, and Foley Estates in Southern California; Chalone Vineyard in Monterey County; Four Graces and Acrobat in Oregon; and Three Rivers in Washington. FFWS’s import wines include Lucien Albrecht in France, Nieto Senetiner in Argentina, and 14 wine brands spanning three of New Zealand’s most acclaimed winegrowing regions: Marlborough, Central Otago, and Martinborough. The growing global spirits portfolio includes High Ground Vodka, Charles Goodnight Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, New Zealand’s Lighthouse Gin, El Mexicano Tequila, the Loch Lomond Group portfolio of Scotch and spirits, and Two Stacks and Killowen Irish Whisky. Learn more at ffws.com.

About K-3 Proficiency Project
A staggering 59% of third-grade students are not reading proficiently in Sonoma County. Becoming a proficient reader by the end of third grade is critical as it marks the transition from learning-to-read, to reading-to-learn. K-3 Innovation, a local non-profit organization, started the K-3 Proficiency Project (K-3PP) with the mission of helping get every student reading proficiently by the end of third grade. K-3PP partners with Sonoma County schools to support teachers in kindergarten to third grade (K-3) classrooms. Students use adaptive online reading programs, while trained assistants help teachers provide small group targeted instruction based on student performance data. Star Reading Assessment results from participating schools show dramatic improvement year-after-year. Learn more at K-3 Innovation.

An Enchanting First Visit to Gardone Riveria

Italy's northern lakes had been on my to-visit list for decades. My husband, Timo's extended family are in the southwest, in Campania — south of Naples and inland a little ways from Salerno. All of our trips to Italy over the years have started or finished up in that area. And though we mad eit up as far as Bologna and Venice a few years ago, the lakes had thus far remained elusive. 

This summer, in the midst of a month-long visit to spend time with my dad and family in England, We made it to Lake Como and Garda both, with an operatic overnight in Verona and Bergamo at the tail end of a memorable week in beautiful northern Italy. Como tends to steal the limelight from Garda in travel stories, so I am writing my post on Garda, the largest of Italy's fresh water lakes, first! 

What a treat to arrive at Hotel Villa Del Sogno about half way up the western shore of the lake and find myself transported back to a genteel turn of the 20th-century when the draw of the elegant, yet laid-back Gardone Riveria was largely for rest and recuperation of the German, Swiss and Austrian elite, a spa-like sensibility, far from the madding crowd of Italy's lauded tourist cities.

I was instantly enthralled by the former villa's Belle Epoque decor and history, dating back to 1904, including its bygone era as a haven for artists and writers. It served as a German officer’s convalescence center during WWII and American troops occupied the villa as a military base at the end of the war, filling its extensive rooms and botanical grounds and terrace with energy, enthusiasm, music and most importantly, food, after a stark & sparse period in history. After the war ended the villa became a hotel and has been in continual use during late spring through the summer months ever since.

We stayed here for two magical nights and I hope to return for a week or so one day. 

Look at the bougainvillea — the hotel's terrace, overlooking the alluring blue waters of the lake, reminded me of the glorious 1992 movie Enchanted April — meets Masterpiece Theatre's Hotel Portofino! 

Hotel room rates have risen to ridiculous heights since we all started traveling again after the pandemic. My ploy is to start my search at a rate I'd expect to pay for somewhere I'd actually like to visit and gradually convince myself to up the ante only to the point of my comfort line. If I had been staying at  Hotel Villa del Sogno for more than two nights during the summer months, I would most likely have settled on something not as pricey, but given it was our first two nights in Garda ever and I'd stumbled on this gorgeous spot online, I don't regret splashing out for the experience. Besides, I'd have no choice but to pay more in the summer for a quality room along the coast when roadtripping in California.  

Everything about this hotel was soothing and serene. Our bedroom came with a small sitting room and lake-facing mini-terrace where I enjoyed a pot of tea before breakfast both mornings (thank you Timo, who never fails to return from his early morning walk with a tray of tea). 

The pretty and sophisticated sitting room and bar is reminiscent of a time before cell phones and overpacked tourist itineraries. 

Nightfall at one of the most enchanting villas overlooking the silky smoothm moonlit waters of Lake Garda - so romantic. And the Villa's gardens — gorgeous. 

The laid-back Gardone Riviera community on Lake Garda enjoys a promenade with restaurants, a botanical garden and plenty beach access. Its slower pace of life has evolved through the region's extensive history. It's origins date back to the Roman empire, according to the findings of various inscriptions and tablets, an era which eclipsed in the West in the 5th century. Evidence has also been found of a two-hundred-year-rule in the region during the Lombard era of the 7^th Century.  It is its 16^th century architecture, however, that gives the town its distinctive medieval style. From 1521 onwards the territory of Gardone Riviera became part of the Venetian territories.

From 1921 to 1938 Gardone was the home of Italian poet Gabriele d'Annunzio. According to an opinion piece by Tara Isabella Burton in the New York Times in 2019, d'Annunzio was a celebrity showman who became a strongman, a womanizing, profligate poet who had become a hero of World War I by airdropping his own propagandistic poetry over Vienna, marched into the Hapsburg city of Fiume (now Rijeka in Croatia) and declared himself its leader.

"The 56-year-old novelist and poet had already made a name for himself not just as one of Italy’s greatest writers, but also one of its most flamboyant. As a young man he’d earned spare cash writing celebrity gossip columns; in his prime, he used them to cultivate myths about his own history. (For example, in 1911, when the Mona Lisa was briefly stolen from the Louvre, he heavily implied it was at his house.) He spent beyond his means, leaving his wife and children destitute while he collected horses and objets d’art (and cocaine). He had hundreds of love affairs — and would tip off journalists when he was about to break one of them off, in the hope that the subsequent scene would make the tabloids. He lived by the maxim of one of his most famous characters, Andrea Sperelli: “One must make one’s life into a work of art.” 

However, it was Italian nationalism that sealed his notoriety as  “Il Vate,” or The Bard, as his adoring fans apparently coined him. Italy had been unified just a few decades earlier, and, according to the Times piece, d’Annunzio’s poems envisioned the newborn Kingdom of Italy as the long-awaited inheritor to the great Roman Empire.

The historical centre of Gardone Riviera is rich in character; historically significant villas, houses and churches, befitting the lofty aspirations of its most famous resident.

The 20^th century German Poet Paul Heyse, famous for his Nobel Prize winning poem ‘last will and testament’, also lived here and immortalized his love of the town in his poetry. The location also held a special place for fascist dictator Mussolini, who visited the town regularly to spend time with his lover towards the end of WWII.  

Boat Trips are the way to see the lake and its ninety-three miles of coastline, divided into three different provinces (Brescia, Verona, and Trento). Hop on and off all day as there are so many beautiful cities on Lake Garda and all have something to offer: castles, Roman villas, vineyards, olive groves, medieval villages, hiking trails and mountain biking, sailing clubs, not to mention specialty dishes in an array of enticing eateries.

Here's a list of towns to explore.  Our favorite was Limone sol Garda. This quaint, picture-perfect hillside community is located on the western shore, immersed in a lush Mediterranean landscape and, not surprisingly, is among the most admired and visited places of the lake by travelers seeking an ideas spot for hiking, relaxation and soaking in nature. Its mild climate throughout the year made it famous for the production of citrus fruits, grown since 1700 in traditional lemon houses, some still in operation and open to the public. I had wondered what the concrete, battlement-like structures were along the lakeside, especially in this area. Apparently, after the unification of Italy and at the turn of the 20th century, many of the traditional lemon houses in this mountainous region were abandoned. Lemons and other citrus has been hit by a deadly disease known as Gommosi, decimating the harvest of dozens of varietals. 

Still, a small, local production supplies sufficient juice for a robust tourist trade in limoncino liqueur, lemon custards and sweets. Garda also boasts excellent olive oils and wines and its tradititonal polenta. 

The church of San Rocco was a must visit for us, which according to the town of Limone's visitor's guide is: "Situated north of the historical center, the church was built in the first half of the 16^th century as a thanksgiving for the people of Limone who had escaped the contagious plague that hit most of northern Italy in those years. The church was finished over the next two centuries, with frescoes on the walls and a bell tower. During the First World War it suffered extensive damage, but fortunately, in 1957, restoration work brought to light some paintings dating back to the 16th century. The church is well integrated in the landscape between the rock, the lake, and the lemon groves, and is one of the most popular places in the town as it is reached by a characteristic staircase that is always adorned with flowers and typical Garda plants, making it one of the most picturesque and photographed views. Liturgical services are still held here today, as well as the feast of San Rocco (16 August)." 

If You Go:

May, June and September are considered the best months to visit Lake Garda in the north east of Italy. Weather is milder during these months, although expect some rainfall. We visited in late June/early July and it rained for the first few days of our week-long trip to Como, Garda, Verona and Bergamo. Come prepared with light rain jackets and layers and non-slip shoes for boat trips. A small umbrella doubled as a sun shade some days, in between showers. 

Verona is the nearest airport to Lake Garda but it depends on where you are heading to on this large lake as to which airport you chose to fly into or have access to flying into. Garda is an area 143 square miles and 93 miles of coastline, divided into three regions.  

If you're not renting a car, it may be more convenient to pick an airport best served by public transport. Verona is good for the east shore of the lake, by bus, or the south shore by train. Milan/Bergamo was our choice by rental car, but there are plenty of options for public transportation to Garda from Bergamo. 

Click here for Lake Garda Travel's tips on the various airport options. 

The closest airports to Lake Garda are: 

• Verona Catullo (VRN)
• Milan Bergamo (BGY)
• Milan Linate (LIN)
• Venice (VCE)
• Milan Malpensa (MXP)

Click here for more info on visiting Lake Garda. 

 

27th Annual Petaluma Poetry Walk — Saturday September 15th, 11 am to 8pm

The Petaluma Poetry Walk is an annual poetry festival, founded in September 1996 by the late poet Geri Digiorno. It features over two dozen poets reading their works at eight venues.

The event has grown over the years, attracting notable poets and a diverse audience and includes readings in both English and Spanish.

During this day-long “movable feast,” participants walk to different locations to enjoy a variety of poetic performances. It has become a cherished tradition in Petaluma, reflecting the city’s rich cultural and literary heritage.

Schedule of Events
September 15, 2024
28th Annual Petaluma Poetry Walk

16 RiverS Press Poets

11am | Hotel Petaluma
Upstairs Ballroom
(Note: There is a staircase to this venue, and no elevator.)
205 Kentucky Street
Petaluma

Christina Lloyd
Alice Templeton
Murray Silverstein

with Event Presenter Terry Ehret

Photo by Scott Hess

The Trio Poets

12 noon | The Petaluma Cheese Shop Tasting Room
112 Washington Street
Petaluma

Emily Schulten: Raleigh Review‘s Geri Digiorno Prize Winner
Lynn Watson
Gene Berson

with Event Presenter and PPW Co-producer, Bill Vartnaw

Photo courtesy of Petaluma Cheese Shop

The Sonoma Writers’ Workshop Poets

1pm | Keller Street CoWork
Main Lounge
140 Keller Street
Petaluma

Jonah Raskin
Lisa Summers
Stacey Tuel
and Steve Shain on Standup Bass

With Event Presenter Daedalus Howell

Photo courtesy of Keller Street Cowork

The Performance Poets

2pm | The Phoenix Theater
201 Washington Street
Petaluma

Avotcja
Maxine Flasher-Düzgüneş
Nancy Miller Gomez

Event Presenter Elizabeth Herron

Photo by Kary Hess

The Poets Laureate

3pm | Copperfield’s Books
140 Kentucky Street
Petaluma

Lee Herrick
California Poet Laureate
Genny Lim
Former San Francisco Jazz Poet Laureate

With Event Presenter Iris Jamahl Dunkle

Photo by Kary Hess

The Marin Poetry Center Poets

4pm | Usher Gallery
1 Petaluma Boulevard North
Petaluma

Ellery Akers
Lee Rossi

With Event Presenter: Francesca Bell

Photo by Kary Hess

The Library Poets

5pm | The Petaluma Historical Library and Museum
20 4th Street
Petaluma

Georgina Marie Guardado
Jodi Hottel
Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo

With Event Presenters: Sabine Wolpert, Lisa Zheng, and John Johnson

Photo by Scott Hess

The Grande Finale

6-8pm | Aqus Café
189 H Street
Petaluma

Emilie Lygren
Kirk Lumpkin
Chris Olander
Lin Marie deVincent
Fran Carbonaro
Dave Seter Sonoma County’s NEW Poet Laureate

Event Presenter Gwynn O’Gara

Photo courtesy of Aqus Café

 

Support poetry and literacy in Sonoma County by clicking here and pledging a few dollars to the Poetry Walk's 2024 Kickstarter. 

Communities for Food & Family Farms Town Hall Gathering — Sonoma County's Resounding Ag Culture Rally Call for NO on Measure J on November's Ballot

"First time I set eyes on the Victorian riverfront city of Petaluma was from the misty coastal west, driving into historic downtown via quaint and charming D Street, its well preserved Queen Anne and craftsman homes a classic Kinkaid picture of Hometown Americana come to life. As I remember it, that weekend evening, Petaluma struck me as the kind of town its people must like to come home to — the kind of place where families gather at the table come evening time and neighbors chat on the porch. I didn't know it at the time, but I'd been chasing my muse in the American West and I'd found it. I can see cows, I'd declared, when a move to this rural community became a possibility."  — quote from my first book, Fog Valley Crush, Love at First Bite, At Home in the California Farmstead Frontier, 2014

I'd written a column in the Petaluma Argus Courier for five years, from 2010 to 2015 prior to producing my first non-fiction book — traveling the backroads of the south county with my notebook in hand, frequently reporting on the boom of the Farm to Table Movement in the region and the evolution from traditional farming to organic. It was all about survival of the fittest for our rural farms, who could pivot to organic, to cheesemaking, to keeping a hold of their multigenerational land. And, as an immigrant myself, I fell in love with the pioneer spirit that infused the people that steward these lands, day in day out, year after year, decade after decade. They don't get to take a day off when it rains too hard, or their back aches. It's hard, physical labor out there and a strong sense of connectedness with mother nature as well as the neighbors, even if they're a mile down the road. 

Fog Valley Crush was the first of two food history and pioneer culture books on the region, which I followed up with two novels, also set against our regional backdrop. I'd say I'm as drawn to the storied farming culture as I am in sitting down at my kitchen table with family and friends, enjoying the bounty of our extended backyard. Every decade there's a new direction. But I, like so many in the area, didn't quite see this one coming, at least not in the form that is presenting itself in Sonoma County in the run up to November's election. 

Our local, regenerative farms are some of the smallest in the nation. They are renowned for leading the way in sequestering carbon, while striving for the highest animal welfare standards around. We've taken for granted, I guess, that we live in a picture-postcard agricultural haven and that our ranchers and farmers have been largely left in peace for over a century and a half as stewards of the green and seasonally alternatively golden, rolling pasturelands that stretch out to the coast. 

This idyilic landscape is under threat. No one is entirely sure why Sonoma County has been targeted, but it's being seen by many as a potential 'foot-in-the-door' for eradicating the future of this country's commercially viable animal product farming. 

In direct response, Sonoma County's Communities for Food & Family Farms has emerged in the Petaluma area with one simple goal: To unite our local community to stand behind our farmers, knowing that Sonoma County farmers farm with compassion for animals, stewardship for the environment and a commitment to provide quality local food for all. This particular group joins a movement throughout the county, including the official website for No on J as well as Sonoma United  and Sonoma Food No on J. 

It's time for us to pay attention to what is happening on our doorstep. And so I took a seat at at a community town hall out in the heart of the matter, notebook once again in hand.

When Albert Straus, founder of globally-respected Straus Family Creamery stands in front of a crowd of farmers, restaurateurs, foodies and concerned community members and says that his company would fold if a controversial measure on the upcoming Sonoma County November election ballot was to pass, let me tell you, each and every person in that barn, positioned out on the edge of rural Petaluma, sat up ramrod straight and listened.

My fridge is never without a respectable stock of Straus butter and Straus Greek Yogurt. Best of the West. I'm loyal and I love it. There are plenty of decent alternatives out there, but the fact that they've been trucked from far flung corners of the country negates for me any benefits in cost cutting and quality. Carbon footprint and all, not to mention that several Straus dairy products come in returnable glass bottles which are in due turn, sanitized and reused. I don't need to preach to the converted. If you're local, chances are you know how great this trailblazing creamery is. 

Albert Straus believes that the orchestrators of Measure J are fixated on big as bad because there's so much manure. Talking points that one of the country's leading organic dairymen disputes wholeheartedly. "It goes right to the core of who we are," he declared, explaining how animal welfare is a core tenet of organic farming. "Our high quality producers, we've built a carbon neutral dairy farm model that is being used as an example for the world." 

Forty-two percent of the milk in California is from Sonoma County. California dairies outside of our county have up to 2,300 cows on their land. The largest in our county is less than a third of that size and are pasture raised. There are eight dairies in Sonoma County with over 700 cows today and these farmers are leading the way with farmed animal welfare, compliant water quality and green energy, using manure to power the operation. 

Straus explained how: ""We would lose up to 30% of our milk supply which would put us out of business."  Large scale industrial farms outside of the county would be given an unfair advantage. 

Simple as that. Straus spoke of the dwindling rural population and number of children in rural schools. "We are losing our rural communities," he said.

Dairy farmer Sam Dolcini said: "The end goal of this measure is to control your diet." Others spoke of venture capitalism invested in vegan diets. This was a barn full of innovators who explain to the world how to create food systems that are more resilient. During COVID many of these dairies provided free or reduced cost milk for local families. If there's another major crisis, we must protect our regional food supply.

Elisa Weber, owner of Petaluma's iconic Della Fattoria, said: "I believe strongly that they're trying to seed their nasty spot in the finest food place in the nation. We need to rekindle our relationship with local food. It's our place on the world's stage. If they cut off our food supply, that hits Marin and San Francisco, who also eat Sonoma County food. I've had hundreds of conversations with people from all walks of life and we've yet to figure out why they are doing this here."

Della Fattoria Cafe in downtown Petaluma showcases the best of Sonoma County foods and produce. 

Elise's husband, David Yunker added: "People don't realize just how horrible this is going to be if this goes through. We're going to see a collapse of our local food chain change the entire tapestry of how we live our life."

He and several other speakers addressed the many thousands of ungrazed acres that would lead to enormous fire hazard. "Meanwhile, we'll be living off packaged foods from who knows where."

Fifth generation Shelina Moreda is no shrinking violet when it comes to public speakingon behalf of her family's heritage dairy. Shelina is a decorated motorcycle racer and covergirl, who has rescued hundreds of animals in numerous wildfires. 

"These people are not running out there to rescue animals in wildfires," she said. "Most people don't know what's going on here. We have to call each other whenever a drone flies over. What's going to happen in those hills when the cows are gone?" 

The subject of land grabs was raised, with the potential for parceling off ranches and development. 

Who is behind Yes on Measure J?

A group called The Coalition to End Factory Farming is composed of numerous animal advocacy, environmental, and social justice organizations including Compassionate Bay, FACES (Farm Animal Climate and Environmental Stewards) of Sonoma County, and Direct Action Everywhere - SF Bay Area.

Small and large local farm families are terrified of this group's threat to their historic ranchlands. Not all ranchers are running multigenerational enterprises. Many are new, first generation farmers who firmly believe that they will have no access to farm materials and feed or large animal vererinary services should the larger farms be shut down. This in turn will destroy their ability to survive in the dwindling farming industry.  

Many who spoke at the Communities for Food & Family Farms Town Hall presentation said they are sickened by the prospect of being victimized by flash mob bus loads of protestors being dropped off at their ranches and storming their properties. One concerned rancher spoke of all the children living on the ranches that have been intimidated by this method. Others are resigned for more to follow, saying that they are fully transparent about their farming operations and have nothing to hide. 

"We're just trying to save our farms. What they were looking for bringing in 400 people was the aggressive reaction of the traditional Billy Bob farmer," said fourth generation poultry farmer Mike Weber, whose Petaluma Weber Family Eggs production facility was stormed by activists in the past. "Instead, we are committed to being the most reasonable, meeting animal welfare, organic and environmental standards and exceeding them."

Weber's farm is the first in the state to produce large volumes of organic fertilizer used in turn by Community Supported Agriculture programs (CSAs) and small, organic farms throughout the region. 

"For every farm job that is lost there's a corresponding job lost in the industry," he said. 

Sonoma County Farm Trails on its OPPOSITION to the proposed local ballot Measure J: "We join in the Sonoma County Family Farms Alliance effort and the “No on Measure J” campaign in urging our friends and members to consider helping to defeat this misguided measure that will be detrimental to our local farming community and economy.

Measure J targets Sonoma County family-owned farms that have been producing fresh, nutritious, and sustainable food for over 100 years. Measure J will devastate local food production, which would make our region more dependent on out-of-area production—driving up food costs and limiting food security—especially during major disasters. It would lead to higher greenhouse gas emissions for food transportation far from source, and put our county at a disadvantage for preserving open working landscapes.

Petaluma City Council members unanimously denounced the measure at a meeting this July, urging all Sonoma County voters to vote NO to J on the Nov 5th ballot. According to City staff, the measure could potentially shut down at least six dairies and 16 poultry farms in the Petaluma area alone. 

During their May 14th meeting, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors heard a presentation from Sonoma County staff, including the Sonoma County University of California Cooperative Extension and the Sonoma County Agriculture Commissioner, quantifying the enormous economic damage that this measure would cost our local economy. The report acknowledged $259 million in locally produced agricultural products would be lost. In addition, a study by the Agribusiness Institute at Cal State Chico expected a $121 million hit on affiliated businesses, such as veterinarians and animal feed providers, as well as tourism. The report also noted a $38 million reduction in consumer spending attributable to jobs lost because of Measure J. This measure would limit jobs and limit the amount of local ethically grown and raised food in our shared community

Coalition to End Factory Farming is using this ballot measure process in Sonoma County to attempt to directly pass legislation to shut down the federal definition of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (otherwise dubbed Factory Farms), of which there are around 21 in Sonoma County. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines CAFOs based on their risk of water pollution. All farms in Sonoma County, large and small must adhere to the strictest of current EPA standards. And if a dairy for instance, grazes 700 acres, its 700 mature dairy cows should be considered relative a herd to the space in question. The Coalition to End Factory Farming claims that the regulatory authorities are failing to protect animals, the environment and public health. It is the coalition's belief that many of the larger farms in Sonoma County are hiding behind their bucolic marketing. 

When asked what will happen to small, local family farms if Measure J passes in November, the Yes on Measure J website quotes in its frequently asked questions section: "In fact, it would help small, local family farms. This ordinance would only prohibit industrialized factory farms that confine large numbers of animals, for example, farms with 82,000 or more egg-laying chickens, 2,500 or more pigs, or 700 or more cows, or farms that have been identified as significant contributors of pollutants. These massive factory farms often hurt small family farms. Small family farms cannot compete with industrial farming because factory farms externalize their costs onto animals, society, and the environment. This ordinance will help restore the local diverse agriculture that existed in Sonoma County before the factory farms moved in."

But according to most small local farmers this is absolutely not the case and small family farms in the county will likely be eradicated along with the larger farms if this measure goes through.

Bronte Edwards, Founder, Rancher of Rainbow Family Ranching Co is an impassioned, highly vocal supporter of farms of all sizes in the region. "This group has taken adventage of our community," she said. "It is pure malarkey."

Sonoma County Supervisor Lynda Hopkins emphatically agrees with the No on Measure J community, saying that the county has an obligation to insure that the Yes on Measure J contingency does not mislead voters with the ballot question. She states: "Our smaller farmers are saying, no, this is wrong, warning of economic impact, loss of local food production, harm to organic dairies." Hopkins insists that small, local farmers and large, alike, are already adhering to the strictest of standards and that even the most modest-scaled chicken farm, for instance, must feed indoors for more than 45 days a year in a long rainy season. This would effectively put the smallest of family farms in peril under the Measure J laws. "I think its impact would be devastating to farms and local food security. Personally, I love local butter, eggs, cheese. If this passes, people won't stop buying eggs, butter and cheese, they'll just have to buy it from farms that aren't local and quite frankly, don't have the animal welfare standards that our local farms do."

Hopkins urges Sonoma County residents to get to know our local farmers, shop more at the farmer's markets, pick local brands, ask questions and educate friends, family, cowokers and neighbors as to what our county will look like and how it will significantly impact our local food supply if Measure J was to be approved. 

California Farm Bureau, Sonoma County Farm Bureau, Sonoma County Farm Trails, Sonoma County Conservation Action, Sonoma County Alliance, Cal Climate & Ag Network all say NO on J. 

The No on J FAQs includes info on California’s Proposition 12, which is arguably the nation’s strongest animal welfare law and is already providing protections against the continued confinement of animals (specifically veal calves, breeding pigs, and egg-laying hens), and ensures these animals are given the ability to move around freely, even in an operation considered a CAFO. At the local level, farms that would be affected by Measure J already follow third-party animal welfare standards, including audits to ensure the care and well-being of farm animals. So if anything, this measure proposal shines even more of a spotlight on the practices within our local farms. Let's continue to be a county that farming communities around the world turn to for inspiration and innovation. Let's continue to be a farming community that cares and collaborates and continues to open its gates and educate the public in order to provide us with the best, most nutritional local food in a future where having one of the word's best local food supplies is one of the most reassuring elements of our modern lives.  

Take some time out of your day to read through and share our region's ag culture website info at https://foodandfamilyfarms.com/.

Click here for the impacts of Measure J.

Frances Rivetti is a British Americaan freelancw writer based in Petaluma, Sonoma County. She is the author of four books: Fog Valley Crush, Love at First Bite, At Home in the California Farmstead Frontier; Fog Valley Winter, Pionner Heritage, Backroad Rambles and Pioneer Recipes; Big Green Country and The House on Liberty Street. She is at work on her third novel, Floating in the Middle, which is set against the coastal erosion backdrop of Sonoma Coast. Follow her on social media on

Facebook.

Instagram

and her author website. 

Easy Like Sunday Morning — Iron Horse Vineyards' Beach Cleanup on the Sonoma Coast with the Surfrider Foundation, Followed by Oysters and Ocean Cuvee at Nick's Cove

Photos — Frances Rivetti 

Sunday mornings in Sonoma County in August are fairly often fogged in. The marine layer lends its cool blanket to the start of day, which is actually quite ideal for a beach cleanup volunteer stint. 

It didn't take too much to talk me into signing up for a session combing for washed up and disgarded plastics and other items that don't belong out at beautiful Doran Regional Park and beach in our beloved Sonoma coastal region. Especially as my husband, Timo and I would find ourselves in such wonderful company. 

Cleanup day sponsor Iron Horse Vineyards is where rustic meets elegance. What a perfect combo when paired with the Sonoma Coast Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation. This pioneering and generously philanthropic estate winery was founded in Green Valley in the Russian River, in 1976, handcrafting California’s most celebrated Sparkling Wines.

Iron Horse is renowned for its Sparkling Wines, which have been served at the White House for six consecutive presidential administrations, beginning with the historic Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Meetings ending the Cold War. The winery's Chardonnays are also radiant and Pinot Noir is its rising star. 

The winery's CEO, Joy Sterling is a member of the California State Food & Agriculture Board, appointed by the Governor and most recently appointed by the State Senate to the California Coastal Conservancy so it's not surprising a cleanup collaboration such as Sunday's was such a delight.

Winery club members and friends who signed up for the day enjoyed an awesome Iron Horse after party with oysters and Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs at Nick's Cove late morning. 

Doran is one of our regular go-to beaches for dog walks and picnics. It was in remarkably good shape for a weekend morning and a reminder that we have an extremely good community of eco-minded beach-goers in this region, for the most part. There's always the little things that get away from a pack-in, pack-out beach day, such as hair ties, zip ties, ring tops, sandwich and dog poop bags and clothing. 

It was our first time volunteering with Surfrider Foundation. Everyone was super friendly and helpful in sending us out along the coastline and dunes to scour the sand for items that shouldn't be there. We heard some recent stories from neighboring beach cleanups in which volunteers retrieved an old microwave from the dunes and a groundwork digger that had been pushed off a cliff. Thankfully it was only smallish items that had washed up or been dropped at Doran. 

The experience really made me think though and I will endeavor to keep a bag and gloves in the car whenever I'm out at the beach. Waiting for someone else to pick up trash is not the move. If we all pitch in, our beaches will become more pristine than they already generally are. 

Iron Horse produces exclusively estate-bottled still and sparkling wines with a distinct “sense of place”. They are specific to the Green Valley of the Russian River Valley AVA, plus the uniqueness of our vineyard, and the vintage at hand. As a result, wines are elegant, bright, focused, highly nuanced, and silky smooth. They exude quality, grace and optimism. 

I was excited to taste Iron Horse's Giving Wine, it's spectacular Cuvee 2019 Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs —a blend of two Chardonnay clones – Clone 4 and Rued Clone, hand harvested – from six different blocks on the winery's Russian River estate. The raw bar at Nick's was fresh and delicious. Nothing beats oysters shucked at the source, though poached prawns came a close second.

 

If you'd like to visit Iron Horse Vineyards, click here to reserve a tasting. 

Find out more about volunteering for Surfrider Founding at this link. 

Nick's Cove is located on the shores of Tomales Bay in neighboring Marin County. Click here to find out more about Nick's Cove's cottages, bar, restaurant and private party rooms. Good news is the former boat shack (lost to a fire) at the end of the pier at Nick's is due to be reconstructed this fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

Festival del Sole — A New Classical Music, Food & Wine Festival in the West Opens with a Conversation about Climate Change

 

What is Festival del Sole, you may ask? 

In 2003, the Festival del Sole was born in Cortona in Tuscany, incorporating a cacophony of events including concerts, fine art exhibitions, culinary, literary events and wine tastings. In 2006, international arts entrepreneur and pianist Barrett Wissman and his wife, cellist Nina Kotova brought the Festival Del Sole to Napa Valley (now known as Festival Napa Valley).

Over the years, the Festivals have attracted a stunning lineup of some of the world’s greatest musicians, artists, actors, chefs and personalities including Robert Redford, Placido Domingo, Renee Fleming, Sting, Thomas Keller, Antonio Pappano, Sophia Loren, Pinchas Zukerman, John Malkovich, Midori, Teodor Currentzis, Maxim Vengerov, Lang Lang, Bobby McFerrin, Anthony Hopkins, Joshua Bell, Sarah Chang, Jeremy Irons, Jean Yves Thibaudet, Cecilia Bartoli, Hélène Grimaud, Jaap Van Zweden, Tony Bennett, Angela Gheorghiu, Vittorio Grigolo, Martha Argerich, David Foster, Whoopi Goldberg, Michael Keaton, Al Jarreau, Elvis Costello, Frances Mayes, Anna Netrebko, Sir James Galway, Vladimir Jurowski, Stephane Deneve, Nikolaj Znaider, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Dmitri Sitkovetsky, Salvatore Accardo, Jonas Kaufmann, Nigel Kennedy and others.

This year, Barrett Wissman decided to bring back the style, artistic level, tradition and excitement of the Festival del Sole to the wine country of Northern California, in partnership with the stunning acoustic and architectural gem, the Green Music Center at Sonoma State University and its Executive Director Jacob Yarrow. What better stage than this to celebrate the planet that inspires all this beauty with a focus on the environment?

The program featured three evening concerts at the Green Music Center, followed by a Sunday early evening screening of Climate Change awareness multimedia & symphony film, narrated by retired Acadamy Award winning actor and filmmaker Robert Redford. It was such a delight to see Redford in the audience, supporting his wife, Sibylle Szaggars Redford with her non-profit, The Way of the Rain, at the Green Center and later that evening at Buena Vista Winery. 

Wine and Culinary experiences during the four day event were curated this August by leading wine publication, VINOUS. First on the roster of good taste was a lunch & pairing at Three Sticks Wines, Sonoma. 

It was my pleasure to be invited to find out more about the festival to share with my readers. You can read my feature on opening day delights here. 

Later that first evening, after the opening concert, musicians and festival-goers enjoyed a super exclusive supper at Healdsburg's private, luxury estate New Tree Ranch. In fact, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening meals all took place at the ranch. I didn't make it up to Healdsburg during the festival but I can't wait to visit New Tree Ranch in the near future. Everything I've heard about it is enticing. There's a lot of choice when it comes to luxury in wine country, but authenticity, character, warmth and sustainable style rarely mesh so seamlessly.

Friday's tasting and lunch took place at the Russian River's Freeman Vineyard and Winery — another great choice, undoubtedly for showcasing Sonoma County's superb hospitality. 

Twinkling lights welcomed guests to a star-studded, elegant gala dinner at historic Buena Vista Winery in Sonoma after Sunday's screening of The Way of The Rain, featuring Buena Vista’s wines as well as a Bordeaux wine crafted by enologist Michel Rolland especially for The Way of the Rain. Sunday evenings in Sonoma County are generally far more sleepy, so this was a real treat after the screening at the Green Center! I thoroughly enjoyed mingling with members of the film's production and non-profit team, as well as the Festival founders. 

In November of 2015 Sibylle Szaggars Redford founded The Way of the Rain Non Profit Organization, which is organized exclusively for charitable, cultural and educational purposes, including the specific purpose of developing, producing and performing educational and artistic performances themed and designed to promote public awareness and support for the protection of our Earth.

The Way of The Rain was inspired by the annual monsoon rains that sustain life on the fragile landscape of the high - desert plateaus of the Southwest. This live multidisciplinary performance invites the audience to remember their physical and spiritual connection to our planets beauty and plight through paintings, music, dance, film, light and spoken word. Conceived by environmental artist Sibylle Szaggars Redford to explore the issue of climate change resulting in rapidly changing weather patterns, Sibylle Redford collaborates with world renowned artists to create a piece that illustrates crucial environmental dilemmas through performance art.

Szaggars Redford is a German born multimedia environmental artist whose artwork has been exhibited throughout Europe, Monaco, Peru, Singapore, Japan, Suriname and the United States. She is the 2016 recipient of the US State Department’s Art in Embassies Program for the US Embassy in Paramaribo, Suriname where after visiting the countries Rain Forests and Indigenous Peoples, 10 of her site specific Pieces were placed on permanent display in the US Embassy in Paramaribo, Suriname.

Her artistry spans across mediums and decades, from painted oil sketches and photographs of her Moroccan travels, expressions on canvas from her American Indian Pueblo visits, large Oil paintings where she explores “The Shape of Color“ and her recent works of watercolor abstracts shaped by the monsoon rains of Santa Fe, New Mexico, California and abroad.

Having worked as an environmental artist for almost 4 decades, her desire is to create art that transcends words, languages, cultures and politics. Szaggars Redford creates art in order to speak to a deeper universal consciousness that’s connected to and dependent on the earth and its environments. In order to find a stronger voice through art for the Earth, Szaggars Redford entered the world of performance art as an homage to the universal elements and an artistic medium for environmentalism in action.

In 2013 Szaggars Redford in collaboration with Icelandic Composer and Musician David Thor Jonsson, designed a concept for a staged art performance piece “The Way of the Rain” which would incorporate different art forms; music, dance, film, light, spoken word and her first designed stage backdrop of multiple large “Rain Painting Silks” that would symbolize falling water from the heavens.

Sunday's screening brought a fresh face to the stage. Fresh as in age and energy, though global social media powerhouse, Khaby Lame is certainly no stranger to the masses on Tiktok. The 24-year-old comedic star has over 250 million followers across his channels on social media. Khabane "Khaby"  is a Senegalese-Italian whose rise to fame came about after he took to making home video skits during his lay-off as a machinist in Milan during COVID.

Lame is to collaborate with Sibylle Szaggars Redford over the next year on a content series to be filmed in his native Senegal, bringing attention to the importance of environmental sustainability. Lame will direct and shoot the content to be narrated by Robert Redford, who is Vice President of The Way of the Rain. 

“Having a voice like Khaby helping to reinforce our mission and tell our story to his youthful generation of followers is a dream come true,” said Sibylle Szaggars Redford. “The future of our planet is in the hands of Khaby’s generation and there couldn’t be a better person to collaborate with us to magnify our message.”

“Collaborating with Sibylle and Robert Redford and The Way of the Rain, Inc. is an honor and important responsibility for me,” said Khaby Lame. “I want to do what I can to communicate about environmental issues we face in my native Senegal, on the African continent and on a global scale.  I look forward to collaborating with Robert Redford in having his iconic voice telling the story and to having his advice and counsel when directing and editing the content.  I have been an admirer of his legacy of work as both an actor and director.”

“Collaboration across genres, generations and talent is what makes the Festival Del Sole unique,” explains Barrett Wissman. “It is satisfying to bring together extraordinary people like the Redfords and Khaby Lame together to help achieve their aspirations and goals.” 

 It takes time for a  festival to find its feet in a new location. Although the Festival del Sole is firmly established with a history in Italy and in neighboring Napa County, as its first port of call several years ago, Sonoma County appears to be the perfect fit going forward and the Green Center at Sonoma State as ideal for staging world class musicians as it is for concert-goers alike. With so many fantastic options for lodging in Sonoma County and experiencing the best of Sonoma wines and culinary expertise, great taste makes for a clear coollaboration for coming years. I'm already looking forward to next year's festival and its increasing spotlight on climate awareness.