The Healdsburg Tribune
RESORT PULLS PLAN AS APPEAL SUCCEEDS WITHOUT COUNCIL VOTE
By Christian Kallen
Montage
Healdsburg Tribune
Healdsburg’s
plan to remove 107 blue oak trees to build a new parking lot has been withdrawn by the developer. The plan, approved by the Planning Commission at its May 28 meeting, drew immediate appeal from a group of local environmentalists, who took the formal measure of filing an appeal of the approval.
The appeal, dated June 7, was filed with the city on June 10 and scheduled to be heard by the City Council when it returns for public business at its next meeting, on Aug. 5.
However, on June 27, the developer’s representative Justin Parsons wrote to the city formally requesting that the application be withdrawn. “Based on feedback from the Public Appeal we will be looking to resubmit a scaled down plan to the Planning Department to limit the number of trees that would need to be included in a tree mitigation plan among other considerations,” Parsons wrote.
Scott Duiven, the city’s planning director, told the group that filed the appeal that since the city “has not expended any resources on preparing for the appeal hearing we will be able to return the appeal application fee to you.”
Members of the local Climate Action Healdsburg
➝ Appeal Succeeds, 4
PANCAKE BREAKFAST, KIDS PARADE, ADOPT-ADUCK AND FIREWORKS TOO
By Christian Kallen
The paper comes out a day early this week because Thursday’s news is already settled—it’s Independence Day, the Fourth of July in Healdsburg.
Say what one will about longevity, it’s the cyclical things that matter—the dates certain on the calendar when things roll the direction they’re supposed to. From a pancake breakfast at the Villa, a Kids Parade and Duck Dash in the Plaza, and fireworks filling the summer sky, it’s a holiday with all the trappings.
Like all the good holidays, there’s something cosmic about it, too, coming a week after the summer solstice and hence a pagan balance to winter’s religious holiday, one pole of a church-and-state dichotomy as it signifies the establishment of a
state, a country that helps make the world go ’round.
It all begins with breakfast: an all-you-can-eat eggs, ham, fresh fruit and pancake breakfast, with real maple syrup. Served at the annex at Villa Chanticleer, hosted by Boy Scout Troop 21 and its adult volunteers. From 7am to noon, only $9 adult, $6 child.
Then join dozens of families and hundreds of kids for the annual Fourth of July Kids Parade and Duck Dash in the downtown Healdsburg Plaza area, from 10am to 1pm.
The annual event continues to be a major attraction for the Healdsburg community to celebrate the founding of our nation, presented again this year by the Rotary Club of Healdsburg, Sunrise, and the City of Healdsburg.
Youngsters are encouraged to dress in costume, many arriving on bikes, tricycles and wagons adorned with red, white and blue decorations. There will be live music and activities for all, including games, races and music from the
country tonk band Court ’n’ Disaster, the backporch-style Russian River Ramblers and the Healdsburg Community Band. Enjoy free lemonade, hot dogs, snow cones, popcorn and more.
Duck Dash
What’s a Duck Dash? In the absence of real waterflow, the Sunrise Rotary encourages kids to adopt a rubber duckie and race it to the splash zone. Donations are appreciated and will benefit the good deeds of Rotary in the local community including scholarships, teacher appreciation, Wonder League and other programs.
Though the Plaza programs end midday, it’s a safe bet holiday activity will continue in one form or another. Veterans Memorial Beach, the Sonoma County regional park at the south entrance to town, now boasts deeper water thanks to the seasonal dam installed last week. Another regional park at Del Rio Woods is
NEW EV CHARGES PLANNED TO CLOSE THE GAP
RATES STILL A BARGAIN, BUT OFF-HOURS CHARGING WON’T BE FREE
By Christian Kallen
Healdsburg has been coming up short some $37,000 annually on its EV charging program, the City Council learned a couple of weeks ago. For every $44,000 it costs for the electric
also likely to have a full parking lot for the remainder of the Fourth.
Later that day, the Healdsburg Prune Packers host Athletic Edge Express, a new-last-year, non-league team from Petaluma that gives collegeeligible baseball players a chance to play the sport. They are 0-4 so far this year, and the Prune Packers 19-2, but as the Pack’s recent two-game losing streak shows, anything can happen. First pitch is at 6pm at Rec Park.
Come sundown, of course, it’s all about the fireworks. As the long summer day begins to fade, people gather in central Healdsburg north of Powell Avenue to wait for, then watch, the annual fireworks display. It usually begins about 9:30pm, and in the past lasted between half an hour and 40 minutes.
However this year, like last, the show may be a bit shorter. “For the fireworks, the cost for the show is $40,000, which is the same amount as prior years,” said
chargers to operate, including the actual price per kilowatt hour to run the chargers, the city only collects $7,000 in fees.
The reason for this mathematical mismatch is that the city only charges 55 cents per hour to the vehicles using them, and that for just 10 hours a day, five days a week. The rest of the time the chargers are free, yet still operable—delivering precious electrical flow to satisfy the hungry batteries of local and visiting EV drivers.
City utility conservation analyst Terra Sampson supplied the information during a June 17 presentation, to encourage updating the public electric vehicle charging fees applied at city-owned EV charging stations.
The city owns and operates 12 such EV charging stations, administered by the ChargePoint app and
the city’s director of community services, Mark Themig. “The show includes 818 shells, and will last approximately 18 minutes.” The City and Police have cooperated on public notices preparing people for the big show, with color-coded maps of street closures and preferred viewing areas. Once again the show will be launched from the Healdsburg High recreation field, though nobody is allowed on the grounds of the high school, on the advice of city Fire and Police Departments with public safety in mind. Also, the campus of Foss Creek Elementary across the street, which is undergoing construction, will be closed as well.
Preferred viewing areas include the parking lot along the west side of Healdsburg High, off the Prince Street entrance, and the playing fields behind Foss Creek at Sanns and Harold. And whatever other public space once can corral or backyard party one can attend.
➝ Fourth of July, 4
located in City Hall’s north parking lot. A number of privately owned but publicly accessible charging stations exist elsewhere in Healdsburg, at locations such as hotels and shopping areas. EV drivers can use apps such as ChargeHub, EVHype and Plugshare, in addition to ChargePoint, to locate these stations.
The shortfall does not equate to a direct budget loss, however. The city’s public chargers are among the programs funded by California’s Cap and Trade program, with the stipulation they be used to benefit electric ratepayers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Other supported programs include EV discounts for lowincome ratepayers, e-bike rebates, energy efficiency rebates and appliance replacement.
Photo by Rick Tang
KIDS PARADE A young participant in the 2023 Kids Parade sits comfortably surrounded by red, white and blue balloons.
Photo by Christian Kallen
GOINGS ON AROUND TOWN THIS WEEK & NEXT
Duck Dash & Fireworks
Kids Parade, Duck Dash and Independence Day festivities at the Healdsburg Plaza on Thursday, July 4, from 10am to 1pm. Followed later that evening by the annual fireworks show at Healdsburg High, 9pm. See story this issue.
Raven in Windsor
The Raven Players plan to open their latest show on Friday, July 5, at the Windsor High School theater. They will stage Stephen Sondheim’s breakthrough musical, Company, weekends through Sunday afternoon, July 21. The newer, smaller theater promises a more intimate audience experience. Tickets $10 students, $40 general. 8695 Windsor Rd., Windsor. www.raventheater.org.
Blackened
Sabbath
Fishbone alum Norwood Fisher leads Trulio Disgracias in an electric eclectic tribute to English rockers Black Sabbath, home band of Ozzy Osbourne. They play Healdsburg on Friday, July 5, to pick up the pieces from the holiday. Tickets $25, $30 at the door, The Elephant in the Room is at 177 Healdsburg Ave., elephantintheroompub.com.
Farmers’ Market
The weekly Healdsburg Farmers’ Market gets underway in the West Plaza parking lot on Saturday, July 6, from 8:30am to noon.
HEALDSBURG HAPPENINGS
Oysters & Whites
The full name of this event is “Stars and Stripes, Oysters and Whites” but by Saturday, July 6, the bunting may be fading a bit. Not so the fresh bivalves from Hog Island Oysters and local wines from Mauritson. Live music and the perfect pairing at Dry Creek Kitchen, 2-5pm, $139 for the experience. Smoke & Mirrors Not a duo or quartet, but a sextet of Sonoma locals with a hands-on love of goodtime classic rock. They play the Coyote Den on Saturday, July 6, starting at 8pm. The Mill Street venue has added Sunday Cornhole to its Trivia Wednesday and Karaoke Thursday calendar. Coyote Sonoma, 44F Mill St., coyotesonoma.com.
Jazz Locals
Furthermore presents some of Healdsburg’s most reliable jazz talent this weekend, with sax professor Bennett Friedman on Friday, July 5, followed by guitarist Randy Vincent and bassist Chris Amberger the following day. Shows 5-8pm, no cover, at the downtown Furthermore Wines Tasting Lounge, 328-A Healdsburg Ave.
Artistic
Anniversary
The Upstairs Art Gallery celebrates 27 years this month, with a “Timeless” exhibit of still-life oils by Luba Stolper, while Gail Morgan’s “Lighthearted” monoprints decorate the staircase. An artists reception will be held Saturday, July 6, from 2-5pm. It’s
upstairs from Levin & Co.
Books at 306 Center St.
Organ Jazz
Adam Shulman plays the keys, Robb Sudduth the sax and Jon Arkin the skins at Hotel Healdsburg’s Spirit Bar on Saturday, July 6. No cover, partial Dry Creek Kitchen menu available. 25 Matheson St.
Sundays at the Plaza
Guitarist Ahmed Drief plays Latin and flamenco on the Gazebo stage on Sunday, July 7, from 1-3pm. No cover, no crowds. Bring a picnic.
Healdsburg
Tuesday
Tuesday, July 9, the Farmers’ Market is open from 9am to 12:30pm downtown
on Plaza and Center streets. Later that same day, the Sam Grisman Project plays Dawg and Dead music, a.k.a. “Newgrass,” from the Gazebo stage from 6-8pm. Food vendors offer locally sourced food for sale starting at 5pm; complimentary bike valet services available.
Three Names
Luke Tyler Shelton comes up from L.A. to play the Second Story stage next Thursday, July 11—the stage is dark on Independence Day. His “soulsoothing rock and roll,” although it sounds like an oxymoron, has caught the ear of Shooter Jennings and other second-generation musicians. This free show starts at 7pm, doors open at 6pm. 25 North St., littlesainthealdsburg.com.
Latinas Latin-rock dance band Maya performs for the folks at Summer Night on the Green in Windsor, Thursday, July 11 (no show on July 4). Farmers’ Market 5pm, music 6-8pm.
Friday Night Live Cajun and Zydeco rockers Tom Rigney & Flambeau will get the party going in Cloverdale for Friday Night Live, July 12 (no show July 5). Street fair 6pm, live music 7-9:30pm.
Post events on the Tribune’s online calendar at healdsburgtribune.com/ calendar and send special announcements to editor@ healdsburgtribune.com.
Piedras
Photo courtesy of John Calmeyer
SMOKE & MIRRORS The Sonoma County rock band plays the Coyote Den on Saturday, July 6.
LOCAL
Downtown Office Space for Rent
FORMER CHAMBER
VISITOR’S CENTER A PEDESTRIAN OPPORTUNITY
By Christian Kallen
The City of Healdsburg has a place for the right business, either commercial or nonprofit, with a desire for a public-facing location
close to the heart of town.
The two-story Mediterranean-style cottage at 217 Healdsburg Ave., which for years served as the public walk-in presence of the Chamber of Commerce, is for rent. Though small— it’s less than 700 square feet, 347 on the ground floor—its location could not be better for the right
customer: Next door to the H2Hotel and a block’s walk from the Plaza.
The city is seeking proposals from commercial business operators or nonprofits interested in leasing the property, City Manager Jeff Kay recently announced. Since the city owns the building, applicants need to contact the city
at healdsburg.gov/bids to download an RFP (Request for Proposal) to begin the application process.
The small building has served as the Chamber’s walk-in information center for at least 50 years, with brochures, maps and personal guidance from a Chamber volunteer or staffer. In 2011 the Chamber moved its headquarters to a back office at the H2Hotel next door, though it maintained the public Visitor’s Center on limited hours until December, when it was closed.
Presently, the Chamber resides in a public office behind the former Visitors Center, in the H2H building, at 219A Healdsburg Ave., where a rack with visitor services brochures is available. The office is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 2pm, though most of its visitor information services can be accessed through the stayhealdsburg.com portal.
At the most recent City Council meeting,
long-time resident Valerie White encouraged the council to rent the property at the going retail rates, rather than cut a deal with a local group.
“There is no way any group could offer benefits to the community that would equal the revenue that the city could obtain and use for projects,” she stated during the meeting’s Public Comment period. “Some groups say they benefit the community, but in my opinion it primarily benefits them.”
She said that based on conversations with local real estate agents, the going rate for downtown properties is $4 to $6 per square foot. She calculated that at $4 a square foot rent would calculate out to $2,800 a month, $33,600 a year or $336,000 over 10 years.
“Please don’t give this building away by not charging commercial real estate values,” she concluded.
“We do have a methodology for determining rent,” said Tyler Kettman, Central Services manager for the city. “It is our feeling
that relative interest in the property will help determine the rental rate, and we have not established a set rate to encourage participation in the RFP from all interested parties.” Added Kettman, “The RFP process will be used to determine relative interest in the property and evaluate and rank proposals. Proposals should include a requested rental rate, but in no way does this bind the city to that rate.”
The RFP process is currently open, with July 17 as the published deadline for applications. Kettman said, “Based on the response we plan to bring top ranked proposals to City Council for consideration in August.”
One thing the building will not be used for is as a tasting room. Current city zoning allows only one winery tasting room per block face in the downtown area; Rockpile Vineyards is located directly across the street and Siduri Wine Bar is located at 241 Healdsburg Ave.
Independence Day
➝ Fourth of July, 1
Funds for Fun
The Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks are supported by two Healdsburg Tourism Improvement District (HTID) grants to the American Legion and Rotary Club. The Rotary Club of Healdsburg, Sunrise, received $5,000 from the chamber for the July 4 Kids Parade and Community Celebration, and the American Legion Healdsburg Post 111 received $7,500 for fireworks that night. Those numbers, however, were reduced from grants in earlier years. The 2023 grants provided $12,000 to the American Legion for fireworks and
$10,000 to Rotary for the Duck Dash. The previous year, 2022, the fireworks display was underwritten for $20,000 and the same amount for the Duck Dash. The change in support represents a shift in priorities for the Chamber of Commerce, with more money going to events that produce increased visits to local hotels—the so-called “heads in beds” criteria. As events that primarily appeal to and involve locals, the Fourth of July celebrations are not thought to generate many hotel reservations.
Just a lot of local family fun and fireworks. Happy Birthday, America.
revising its membership.
Parking Lot Challenge
moved to Healdsburg full time in 2020, though he’s owned a house in the area since 2010.
group collected the appeal application fee, which totaled more than $1,667.
elimination of 107 blue oak trees.
Tyra Benoit of the CAH said they were considering holding onto the money or finding other ways “so that we can support future tree protection and planting opportunities,” she wrote when announcing the application withdrawal.
The Planning Commission’s approval, on a 3-1 vote, took place with only four of the sevenmember board in session. The sole vote in opposition came from the commission’s chair, Phil Luks, who criticized the applicants and the city planning staff for underexploring alternative plans to develop the lot, which may have not required the
The CAH appeal filing references that point, reading in part, “The Addendum does not adequately address policies requiring that the applicant address loss of valuable habitat and loss of native trees of significant size. No feasible alternatives were demonstrated.”
Parson’s withdrawal letter suggests that, rather than fight the appeal in an effort to move their proposed project forward, it was prudent to consider revising the resort’s application.
New Commissioner Meanwhile, the commission was in the process of
The City Council had taken applications to name three members before the start of FY 2024-25, which begins this week. At their final City Council meeting of the month, the council confirmed three new members of the Planning Commission, following evaluation of 11 applications by Councilmember Ariel Kelley and Vice Mayor Evelyn Mitchell.
Current Planning Commissioners Stephen Barber and Tom Gerlach were reappointed for new fouryear terms. Named to fill an open seat for two years was architect Jonathan Pearlman. The early resignation of Vesna Breznikar caused the two-year vacancy.
Pearlman, a principal of Elevation Architects, has been an increasingly vocal presence in city meetings over the past couple years. He said he
“With my architectural background, I have spent my life focusing on the importance of placemaking and its impact on quality of life,” he wrote in his application. “Now committed to Healdsburg, I feel I bring my knowledge and experience to bear in visioning and shaping our future while retaining the character of our town.”
The first meeting with the newly constituted Healdsburg Planning Commission will take place Tuesday, Aug. 13. Duiven said they are scheduled to review the Development Agreement and Master Conditional Use Permit for the Mill District. The public agenda packet for the meeting will be published on the city’s website on Aug. 7.
Appeal Succeeds, 1
Photo by Alex Hunt
PARKING LOT A view from the county-owned Healdsburg Transfer Station toward the nearby parking lot at Montage Healdsburg, where the resort intends to expand its current parking facilities.
DUCKIES Children play with their rubber ducks in the 2023 Duck Dash, held on the Fourth of July every year at the Healdsburg Plaza.
Photos by Christian Kallen
Defeat Finally Comes to the Pack
FIRST THE ROGUES, THEN THE KINGS PUT THE SKIDS ON WINNING STREAK
By Caleb Knudsen
With their first road trip of the 2024 season, the Healdsburg Prune Packers found out what it was like to lose. Twice.
Carrying an 18-0 record into their June 27 game at Harry David Field in Medford, Oregon, the Pack’s luck finally ran out. The home-team Rogues, who had been defeated by the Packers the previous five games, including two on their own home field, had at last had enough.
The Pack carried a 6-1 lead into the fifth inning, then the host Rogues scraped together four runs in that frame and four more in the next to put the Healdsburg team on the ropes. Healdsburg struck back with its own sixth inning rally for two, but the teams were locked in a 9-9 tie as the final, ninth inning got underway. In the top of the inning Healdsburg loaded the bases with Jake Tatom, Alex Leopard and Eamonn Lance, but was unable to deliver anyone across the plate when Maddox Molony rolled out to the second baseman.
The Rogues made better use of their breaks, as Cody Nitowitz opened the inning with a single, and a walk and a strikeout later, and came home on a Luke Smith single for the walk-off win, 10-9. Healdsburg reliever Max Debiec drew the loss, while Medford’s Logan Miller got the win. The loss was the first of the season for the Healdsburg team, which had hoped to sweep its first road series to keep up its winning ways. The Oregon team had other ideas, however. But even
with the win, Healdsburg displayed considerable “ownage” over Medford, ending the season meetings with a 5-1 record.
Coach Joey Gomes seemed undeterred by the loss. “The 6x Northern California Champions, 3x California State Champion, brokers of the newly formed super league and exclusive deals with Trackman & New Era, Healdsburg Prune Packers are again in first place,” he wrote to the Tribune in an email.
“Taking the series win on the road in Oregon!”
Back Home
Their first road trip behind them, the Packers headed back to Rec Park the next day, Friday, June 28, for their season’s first meeting with the West Coast Kings from Concord. But the Kings, who sported a 4-4 league record going into the game against Healdsburg’s 9-1, pulled off an upset.
The extra 10th inning was required by the 4-4 tie after the regulation nine. That has been the sign for visiting teams all year that they’re about to lose—Healdsburg’s record in extra-inning games was spotless— but the Kings rallied for three runs in the top of the inning with one swing of the bat, as right fielder Kurt Wolf homered with two on.
Healdsburg’s offense only scored a single run in their half of the inning, and the visiting Kings ended up with the 7-5 win.
Though having an 18-2 record is hardly cause for soul-searching, losing two in a row is not exactly an affirmation.
The Prune Packers next faced the Solano Mudcats, also a PEL
team and one the Packers had easily defeated 5-0 on June 16. Big Jaden Alba from Arizona State started on the mound and took control early, pitching five solid innings while striking out nine and giving up only one hit and a walk.
When Elliot Joslin replaced him, the Packers only had a 3-0 lead, and Joslin let two runs across to narrow the margin to a single run despite striking out six in only two innings of work.
The Packers needed a four-run inning in the bottom of the seventh to build a cushion, picking them up with only two hits supported by three walks and two wild pitches. The final 7-2 score was a welcome return to form by the Prune Packers, now 19-2 overall, 10-2 in the league. As July begins, they have a three-game rematch with the West Coast Kings on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, interspersed with home games against the Lincoln Potters on July 3 and the (non-league) Athletic Edge for the Independence Day, July 4, game. Follow the team at prunepackers.org. Adult admission is usually $8. Home games start at 6pm, except Sundays, 12:30pm. Rec Park is located at 515 Piper St.
Photo courtesy Medford Rogues
OREGON DIAMOND The Medford Rogues’ home park is Harry David Field, where the Rogues are seen warming up before their game last Thursday, June 27. Later that day, the Rogues handed the Prune Packers their first loss of the season with a 10-9 walk-off win.
Photos by Christian Kallen
BLAZER Long Beach’s Jaden Alba, a student at Arizona State, pitched five solid for the win in the recent Solano game, 7-2 on July 29.
SAFE AT THIRD Medford’s Jack Meissner slides safely into third in the fifth inning of the Medford-Healdsburg game on June 19. He later came in to score, but the Packers won the game, 5-4, on a 2-run ninth inning.
Hollyhock Stop Sign
As they say: Stop and
Rates Still a Bargain
Bringing into line the fees charged to EV battery users with their actual cost, argued Sampson, would make more Cap and Trade funds available to expand the city’s EV charger program to other city-owned parking lots, including at 228 Healdsburg Ave. and the Senior Center parking lot at 311 East St. New chargers are planned for both locations, and several others as well.
Price Hike
For owners of EVs and hybrids who charge at home, the cost per kilowatt hour in Healdsburg is $1.95, four times more expensive than what the city charges—and that’s only when the ChargePoint clock is ticking. So it’s not unreasonable for a resident to charge at one of the city’s 12 bargainpriced charging stations instead of at home.
And some, apparently, do just that. “On average, once per month a vehicle parks for longer than 24 hours and does not pay anything,” Sampson said. The same studies from 2023-2024 show that roughly half of these scofflaw overparkers have a Healdsburg zip code.
The upshot is that Sampson recommended that the council significantly increase the pricing policy for the city’s 12 currently operating stations, some of which have been operational since 2013. No more free charging: Rates would be staggered to reflect peakuse hours, and brought more in line with the actual cost of providing
the charging service. The new rates may better reflect accurate cost of electricity, but they will still be a bargain: $1.50 an hour between 7am and 5pm, then up to $1.80 an hour during peak-use hours between 5pm and 8pm, periods of high grid use. Between 8pm and 7am rates would drop to $.80 an hour, in keeping with off-hour electric rates.
The new rates will likely be rolled in over a three-year period, in keeping with the city’s habitually delayed rollin on utility charges. But some new fees will begin later this year, after the utility department presents new rates and the council agrees. Customers at the city’s charging stations will see the difference on their ChargePoint statement as soon as September.
Overnight Parking
Healdsburg’s bargain EV charging rate is only part of the problem, however. “Staff and local EV drivers have noted challenges when EV drivers do not move their vehicle when charging is complete,” Sampson said. In other words, people charge up and leave their cars or trucks in the city lot long past the time their own charging is finished, taking up potential spaces for other electric cars to charge. Though the figures show almost 20,000 successful charging sessions over the past two years, the average time per session equated to 4 hours,
TRICK OF THE LIGHT TURNS A ROADSIDE BLOSSOM INTO A PHOTOGRAPH
By Pierre Ratte
Sometimes ya just see sumthin.’
Driving down the road, the sun shone through a pink and red hollyhock, transforming its petals into a glowing orb. Arresting. Even driving 35 mph, not quite at a stoplight, something said, “Stop.” Take a beat, take a picture, take a moment to appreciate. As they say: Stop and smell the roses. In this case, the hollyhock.
It’s July Fourth, a time of patriotic remembrances, picnics, pies, parades and fireworks. Time to take a moment and stop. Stop to reflect and honor this country’s great experiment in governance “of the people, by the people and for the people.”
Wishing everyone joys of the season in backyard gatherings, pool parties, barbecues and baseball games. Happy Fourth of July!
Fun facts: We live in a federal constitutional democratic republic. Say, what? Let’s break it down. Federal meaning a federation of states with a republican form of government. Republican (small “r”) meaning power held by people and exercised through representatives. Constitutional meaning power is limited by written doctrine establishing rules preventing pure democracy, and therefore, the unfettered will of the majority or their representatives. Democratic (small “d”) meaning people voting for representatives. The U.S. is 248 years old. Before the United States of America, we were United Colonies. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, thereby severing political connection with Great Britain. Jefferson wrote the Declaration in mid-June. On July 5, a day after Congress voted, a copy of the Declaration was printed with only John Hancock’s and Charles Thompson’s signatures, as president and secretary of the Congress. On July 19, Congress ordered the Declaration “engrossed” and signed by all members. Engrossed meaning a law is prepared in official form—in this case it was retitled “the unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America.” On Aug. 2, John Hancock signed. Other member’s signatures were arranged by states north to south, beginning with New Hampshire and ending with Georgia. Eight members of Congress did not sign. In signing, members pledged their lives, their fortunes and their honor. As traitors to Great Britain, they signed on penalty of death. Their pledge and their sacrifice are celebrated and honored today.
43 minutes. “However,” her report continued, “47 charging sessions were longer than 24 hours, and 25 of these charging sessions did not have any user fees [due to weekend parking]. In other words, on average, once per month a vehicle parks for longer than 24 hours and does not pay anything.”
About half of the weekday overnight users are Healdsburg residents, according to Sampson.
The discovery of this loophole in the city’s enforcement caused
Mayor David Hagele to stir in his seat at the dais. “Aren’t there 4-hour parking signs there?” he asked the city staff. “So they could get a ticket. How does that work? And those tickets could go to reimburse [the city’s] electricity.”
The question drew a smiling response from Police Chief Matt Jenkins. “Very good question,” Jenkins said. “The municipal code doesn’t have a specific section that speaks to EV parking, and we are looking
at the parking ordinance as we speak. That’s likely something they’ll be coming back to after your July recess, probably in September.”
Councilmember Ariel Kelley asked, “Are we currently enforcing, or no?” No, came the reply.
“OK, but don’t tell anybody,” she added with a wink.
Regardless, Sampson wanted it made clear that electricity remains a cheaper fuel source than gasoline. “It is also important to note that whether
charging at home or at the city chargers, electric fuel is cheaper than gasoline,” she said. “In 2023, California gasoline was $4.88 per gallon, costing $2,440 annually for the average gasoline vehicle.
“Charging at home in Healdsburg is estimated to cost at least 50% less than a gasoline vehicle, and even with the adjusted fees, staff estimates that Healdsburg’s charging stations will continue to be cheaper than charging at home,” she added.
Photo by Pierre Ratte
BACKLIT
smell the roses. In this case, the hollyhock, illuminated from behind by the afternoon sun.
Photo by Christian Kallen
ARRAY The City of Healdsburg provides a dozen EV chargers for public use at discounted rates in the north parking lot at 401 Grove St..
➝ EV Charges, 1
WINE
Multilayered Wine on the Plaza
HEALDSBURG TASTING ROOM
EXPERIENCE A WELCOME RESPITE
By Daedalus Howell
With all the hubbub that defines the Wine Country experience for some—tourism, bachelor or bachelorette parties, DUIs—occasionally, locals just want a good glass of wine in a clean, welllighted place (forgive me, Hemingway).
But why keep it so simple? While we’re dreaming, why not make it an excellent glass of wine in a clean, well-lighted place designed with aesthetic intention that serves to remind we once dreamt of a utopian future whilst drenched in natural light and surrounded by organic forms that recall the refined bohemianism of the best ’70s décor.
Perhaps this is just my own projection, a childhood fever dream writ large on the warm wood and gallery-white walls reaching for an impossibly
high ceiling at Marine Layer Wines’ tasting room in Healdsburg. Regardless, this is the place—a haven that appeared like some Xanadu on the west side of the city square just when we needed to hide.
Why we needed to hide is another matter. But be it serendipity, providence or the dark thirst that impels wino writers to duck through tasting room doors—we discovered Marine Layer Wines. Readers should, too.
A collaboration of beloved brand Banshee Wines co-founder Baron Ziegler and its alum winemaker Rob Fischer, Marine Layer Wines is a Sonoma Coast-focused initiative that frontlines sustainable farming, heritage clones and hand-harvesting. Its name is a hat tip to the thick blanket of fog that ushers in the cooler temperatures of the Pacific Ocean via the Sonoma Coast into the area’s various inland valleys.
A sampling of four seasonal selections from Marine Layer’s tasting
menu can be had for $30, but I preferred to commit to full glasses immediately. The 2023 Carina rosé is redolent with hibiscus, white peach grounded with watermelon rind and a piquant kiss of seaborne brine. Likewise, the 2021 Lyra pinot noir— ripe with red raspberries, a whisper of cardamom and undergirded by a delicate minerality.
But a full glass in a tasting room?
“Exactly,” said Tyler Hayes, who ran the room during this visit. “With our license, we’re able to serve and operate in a kind of a wine bar capacity. We’re able to let people enjoy the wines they like the most. Some people will choose to add on a glass after a tasting.” Or, like this writer, add a glass after a glass before a tasting.
And they never found us.
Marine Layer Wines is located at 308B Center St., Healdsburg. For more information, call 707.395.0830 or visit marinelayerwines.com.
DARYL ROBERTSON, PARTNER. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Sonoma County on June 06, 2024. (Publication Dates June 13, 20, 27 and July 4 of 2024 The Healdsburg Tribune).
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT - FILE NO: 202401828 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. CASARI CONSTRUCTION, 4615 HALL ROAD, SANTA ROSA, CA 95401, COUNTY SONOMA, Mailing Address SAME: Is hereby registered by the following owner(s): CASARI CONSTRUCTION, 4615 HALL ROAD, SANTA ROSA, CA 95401: This business is being conducted by A CORPORATION. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious name or names above on N/A. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: ARIANA MAZZUCCHI, CFO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Sonoma County on MAY 31, 2024. (Publication Dates June 20, 27 and July 4, 11 of 2024 The Healdsburg Tribune).
Trustee Sale APN: 161-140-001-000 TS No: CA07001453-22-3S TO No: 2971265 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE (The above statement is made pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d)(1). The Summary will be provided to Trustor(s) and/or vested owner(s) only, pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d)(2).) YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED August 22, 2016. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On July 17, 2024 at 10:00 AM, In the Plaza at Fremont Park, 860 Fifth Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on August 25, 2016 as Instrument No. 2016074157, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Sonoma County, California, executed by NICHOLAS WILLIAM PLOTNIKOFF, AN UNMARRIED MAN, as Trustor(s), in favor of MORTGAGE
fictitious business name(s). Fictitious Business name(s) PLATINUM NAIL LOUNGE, 397 AVIATION BLVD SUITE C, SANTA ROSA, CA 95403, COUNTY SONOMA. The Fictitious Business Name Statement was filed on 11/09/2022, File Number 202203266. Registered Owners(s) PLATINUM NAIL LOUNGE INC, Business name(s) PLATINUM NAIL LOUNGE, 397 AVIATION BLVD SUITE C, SANTA ROSA, CA 95403. This business was being conducted by A CORPORATION. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: DAVIS TRAN, PRESIDENT/CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of Sonoma County on JUNE 18, 2024. (Publication Dates: June 27, July 4, 11, 18 of 2024 Healdsburg Tribune) FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT - FILE NO: 202401984 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. TRU WATER SOLUTIONS, 5 FITCH STREET, HEALDSBURG, CA 95548, COUNTY SONOMA, Mailing Address SAME: Is hereby registered by the following owner(s): LOCKIE BILLIES, 5 FITCH STREET, HEALDSBURG, CA 95548: This
presentan antes del cierre de operaciones el 9 de agosto de 2024, los votantes tendrán hasta el cierre de operaciones el 14 de agosto de 2024 para nominar candidatos que no sean el titular para dicho cargo electivo.
las nominaciones de candidatos, comuníquese con la Oficina de la Secretaria de la Ciudad al (707) 431-3317 o rallan@healdsburg.gov Las boletas para la Elección General del 5 de noviembre de 2024 se enviarán a cada votante activo y registrado en el Condado a partir del 7 de octubre de 2024. Los Centros de Votación estarán abiertos para la votación anticipada en persona del 26 de octubre al 4 de noviembre, de 9am a 5pm. El día de las elecciones, el 5 de noviembre, los Centros de Votación estarán abiertos de 7am a 8pm. Consulte el sitio web del Registro de Votantes del Condado de Sonoma, SoCoVotes.com, para obtener una lista completa de los Centros de Votación y las fechas/horas específicas en que cada uno está abierto. f/Raina Allan Secretaria de la Ciudad Fechado: 26 de junio de 2024
SIP Excellent design enhances the tasting room experience at Marine Layer Wines.
Photo by Kary Hess
OVERSTAYING, A STOLEN TRACTOR, BATTLING BROTHERS, DONUTS ON CANYON RUN
Monday, June 17
2:18pm A vehicle was stopped on Lytton Springs Road at Healdsburg Avenue for violating taillight rules. A 32-Year-Old (YO) man was cited and released for driving with a license suspended for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), violating probation, lacking proof of insurance and on outstanding Sonoma County warrants regarding driving with a license suspended for DUI, speeding, DUI and misdemeanor hit and run.
3:00pm The reporting party (RP) at Hotel Trio on Dry Creek Road indicated that a guest refused to leave the hotel. Officers responded. The guest packed up and left.
Tuesday, June 18
11:14am An officer stopped a vehicle near the former location of Wicked Slush on Healdsburg Avenue for violation of license plate and windowtinting rules. A 28-YO man was arrested and transported to county jail on an outstanding San Jose County warrant regarding sexual battery and indecent exposure. The passenger of the vehicle was allowed to take possession of the vehicle and a dog.
12:28pm Officers responded to a disturbance in the area of Matheson Street at Greens Drive. During an altercation between the driver of a vehicle and a motorcyclist, the motorcyclist was hit several times with a golf club. The suspect with the golf club, a 74YO man, was arrested and transported to the county jail for assault with a deadly weapon.
• 3:50pm The RP indicated that several days previously, her neighbor’s tractor on Grove Street, valued at approximately $3,000, was stolen. The RP called on behalf of her neighbor because the RP’s neighbor did not have his phone. Officers responded and took a report.
Wednesday, June 19
• 6:25am Grand theft of a bicycle from the RP’s home occurred on Healdsburg Avenue. The RP subsequently located a man riding the bike on Kinley Avenue. When confronted by the RP, the man said he bought the bike. Officers responded and took a report. The bike was recovered and returned to the RP.
• 8:27am Graffiti was reported on the Foss Creek Path.
• 10:42am Petty theft occurred at Big John’s Market on Healdsburg Avenue on June 17. The suspect took a large container of hot-bar food, cake and a bottle of whiskey, valued at $60.67. The RP was willing to press charges.
An officer responded and took a report.
• 10:44am Petty theft occurred at Big John’s Market on Healdsburg Avenue. Two men took a bag of chips, two drinks and two sandwiches, valued at $34.74. The RP was willing to press charges.
An officer responded and took a report.
1:05pm An officer contacted a 39-YO woman at the former location of Wicked Slush on Healdsburg Avenue. She was cited and released on an outstanding Sonoma County warrant regarding possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine.
1:32pm The RP on Grove St. indicated that when he was in an argument with
his brother, his brother threw an object which hit the RP in the head. Officers responded, and the victim was transported to Sutter Hospital. A 22YO male was arrested and transported to county jail for assault with a deadly weapon.
2:25pm Graffiti was reported on Grove Street on a tree behind the nursery school.
2:33pm A report received from West Plaza parking lot RP indicated a woman was choking a man, then the two were hugging. Subsequently, the man struck the woman. Officers responded, and both people declined medical assistance. A 53-YO male was arrested for domestic battery, disorderly conduct under the influence of a drug and violating probation. He was transported to county jail. An emergency protective order was granted.
7:32pm The RP indicated that reckless driving occurred at Healdsburg Junior High School on Grant Street. A black sports car was reported speeding and revving its engine. Officers responded but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Thursday, June 20
• 4:57pm An RP reported a vehicle collision in the Safeway parking lot at 2pm between a white Jeep and her vehicle, a rental. The drivers exchanged information.
Friday, June 21
• 6:56am The RP indicated that a hostile person claiming to have weapons was at Selby Winery Tasting Room on Center Street. The person subsequently left. Officers responded, but were unable to locate the person.
• 9:12am Graffiti was reported throughout the Badger Park bridge on Second Street at Alley 2.
• 12:28pm The RP at The Elephant In The Room on Healdsburg Avenue previously allowed a transient woman to sit on the patio while the RP cleaned. Subsequently, the woman refused to leave. The RP did not want to press charges, but wanted the police to be aware of the situation.
1:42pm A person was riding a black Harley recklessly, standing on the seat near Luciani Pump Co. on Mill Street. Officers responded and may have identified the suspect, but he was subsequently unable to be located.
Saturday, June 22
• 10:00am An accidentinjury occurred at Jerry's Valero on Dry Creek Rd. Multiple calls were received about a vehicle vs. bicyclist collision. Both subjects were still on scene. HPD units responded along with medical. The victim on the bike was transported to Memorial Hospital and released with minor injuries.
9:00pm The RP stated that she and her neighbor were arguing at L&M Motel on Healdsburg Avenue. A man threatened to throw a spray can at the RP. Officers responded and contacted the RP. She refused to press charges, but a report was taken for informational purposes.
Sunday, June 23
3:47am A man was slumped in a sedan at McDonald’s on Healdsburg Avenue. Officers responded and contacted the man. He handed over his keys and walked to a friend’s house.
6:50am The RP indicated that a man and woman were verbally fighting at Citrine Apartments on Grove Street. Officers responded and located the people at Valero. A 53-YO man, who had previously been arrested on June 20, was again
arrested and transported to county jail for violating probation and violating a restraining order.
7:32am The RP on Matheson Street at Healdsburg Avenue stated that on June 22 a man was standing on the corner blocking the button for crossing the street. When the RP confronted the man about blocking the button, the man screamed at him. The RP wanted to know why the man was allowed to act like that. The information was logged.
8:46am The RP at Lola’s Market on Healdsburg Avenue located a skimmer device on the credit card machine. An officer responded, obtained the device and took a report.
• 12:20pm Two calls from an RP on Alexandria Drive reported domestic arguments between brothers. Officers responded, but nothing criminal had occurred. The officers gave advice and provided information for a therapist, a member of the Police Social Services Team.
• 3:35pm The RP indicated the RP’s vehicle was hit while parked at Casa Del Mole on Center Street. A witness provided the license plate number of the suspect vehicle. An officer responded and took a report.
3:57pm Officers contacted a man in a suspicious vehicle on Lytton Station Road at Hassett Lane. A 55-YO male was cited for possession of a controlled substance and possession of destructive devices or explosives.
5:08pm An employee at Healdsburg Regional Library on Piper Street stated a man locked himself in the bathroom. Officers responded and transported the man to Healdsburg General Hospital for extreme intoxication. •
