The Healdsburg Tribune
Staff Report
The weather on Wednesday, Aug. 21, was just about perfect—bluebird skies and a break in the summer heat, with the thermometer dropping into the 70s when the annual Healdsburg Chamber BBQ & Blues Party got underway at 5:30pm at Rodney Strong Vineyards.
About 300 people showed up, many dressed in blue (as the organizers requested) to celebrate the rock ’n’ roll “Blues” theme. Wine was consumed, barbecue was served, swag was distributed, and community members engaged in lively and diverse conversation.
“It was an unforgettable evening filled with good company, fine wine and lively music, all set against the stunning backdrop of Rodney Strong,” said Chamber CEO Tallia Hart.
“It really is just to celebrate the businesses and members, and all the achievements they have made throughout the year, and to support our programming for the next year,” Hart added.
Most of the Healdsburg City Council attended (aside from those members in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention), as did city staff, area businesspeople and their families, artists and educators. Attending in large numbers, local realtors seemed to have their own ad hoc convention, making connections that might have
LACK OF ENFORCEABLE ORDINANCE COMPLICATES CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION
By Christian Kallen
In the third week of August, a number of election-style signs were positioned downtown near the Healdsburg Running Company. “Vote Yes on Local!” they read, with a big checkbox graphic. But there is no local ballot measure on the topic, nor a candidate named “Local.” Instead, the issue was hashtagged #No-BigFranchises-Downtown, and the target was the Aug. 19 City Council meeting.
Skip Brand, co-owner of Healdsburg Running Company, had the signs made and posted to bring the issue to light, along with a brief online survey (at yesonlocal.com) asking about franchises and the definition of downtown Healdsburg. “I just want people to know before it happens,” Brand said. “Because if you don’t make
a decision about franchises, they just come in.”
What is a franchise?
Many cities work from a definition of a “formula store”—but what’s that? And are they allowed in downtown Healdsburg or not?
Those questions were posed at the City Council meeting last week when a discussion was held on “Formula Business Regulations in Downtown Healdsburg,” at the request of Councilmember Ariel Kelley.
The issue arose when a business woman in town complained to Kelley that her two clothing stores on Matheson Street could face competition from Faherty, a national chain of menswear (fahertybrand.com).
Faherty’s motto is “From Malibu to Martha's Vineyard, our stores are where the good vibes come alive …” The New York Times characterized its clothing as “mainstreaming the surf hippie aesthetic.”
Though Faherty doesn’t currently run a store in Sonoma County, it does in Corte Madera and San Francisco, among the 60 or so it directly operates nationwide. Now Faherty
has plans to open a store at 326 Healdsburg Ave., in the former Ooh La Luxe— two storefronts away from the Plaza.
Local business owners and operators have long assumed that “formula stores” are prohibited from opening in Healdsburg’s downtown area, though as it turns out that assumption isn’t quite true. Although the Planning Commission in 2011 did prepare an ordinance to limit the parts of Healdsburg where such stores could operate, the ordinance was never presented to the City Council and never went on the books.
What’s the Formula?
The definition of a formula store that the city approved at the time appears in the General Plan, a series of non-binding guidelines that provide a road map for development in the city. The definition, which Planning Director Scott Duiven presented to the council during their discussion, reads: “A business that is required by
HEALDSBURG’S LIBRARY READIES FOR CHANGE
MOVE TO NEW ‘MINI LIBRARY’ NOW UNDERWAY, TO OPEN SEPT. 3
By Jon Haupt
The time has finally arrived for the Healdsburg Regional Library to undergo its long-awaited modernization project. The staff are working diligently to prepare the building and collections for the impending project, but with all of the questions coming our way, I hope to answer some of
contractual or other arrangement to maintain any of the following: standardized services, menu, decor, uniforms, architecture, signs or other similar features and is not part of a locally- or regionallybased group of businesses.”
Two policies in the general plan invoke formula business. In the Land Use element D-5, which prohibits formula businesses “on properties round the historic Plaza in order to preserve its character of small, unique businesses that are attractive to residents and visitors.” And in the Economic Development element, B-3, which prohibits formula businesses on properties “around the Plaza in order to support localand independently-owned businesses and protect and enhance Healdsburg’s unique character.”
However, despite the good intentions of the General Plan (GP), no ordinance prohibits formula stores from opening anywhere in the city. City Manager Jeff Kay, while acknowledging that the 2011 ordinance was not
them in this column.
For the rest of the week through Saturday, Aug. 31, we will offer services via the BiblioBus from 10am to 4pm at the 139 Piper St. location. On Sunday and Monday, Sept. 1-2, the library will be closed for Labor Day. Books and DVDs can be returned via the book drop at 139 Piper St. We will pick up the remaining items on Tuesday, Sept. 3, and that book drop will be closed. We hope everyone can take advantage of our Healdsburg Mini Library at the Community Center this year while the building on Piper Street is under construction. The Mini Library is set to open on Sept. 3 to offer most of the same services we provide normally, with the same hours as previously offered at Piper St., seven days a week.
The extensive modernization project will take
taken up by the council (“I’m not certain why that is,” he said), stated that “the City’s enforcement of the General Plan policy has been essentially the same as what would have occurred had the ordinance been adopted. I can’t point to anything that would be different, in terms of our business mix, if the ordinance were in place.”
The woman with the two stores on Matheson who called Kelley’s attention to the matter was Merete Wimmer, owner of Rete and Ereloom. “It’s very frustrating because we as merchants have thought that there was an ordinance in place,” she said. She added another factor: “We have all been under the impression that ‘around’ means including the nearby couple blocks around the square.” The Plaza Retail District consists in fact only of the businesses whose storefronts face the Plaza, on Healdsburg Avenue, Plaza and Center Streets, and Matheson. There is no broader definition of it in
several months to complete—we are planning to reopen at 139 Piper St. in Spring 2025. In the meantime, we hope to see you around at the Mini Library: Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm; Tuesday and Wednesday, 10am to 8pm; Sunday, 1-5pm.
Mini Library
The Community Center is located at 1557 Healdsburg Ave. in the former Foss Creek Elementary School. This important city facility also houses Healdsburg Community Services as well as Corazón Healdsburg, Alliance Medical Center and YWCA’s Healdsburg Childcare Program. We are grateful to the City of Healdsburg for making space available for the library during this important project.
➝ Modernization Project, 4
Photo by Christian Kallen
GUTCHECK Skip Brand of the Healdsburg Running Company posted a number of ‘Vote Local’ signs in the downtown area before last week’s city council meeting about formula stores.
Photo by Christian Kallen
BUS Simone Yingst, the new outreach coordinator of Sonoma County Library, inside the BiblioBus parked at Healdsburg Regional Library while the library undergoes modernization.
GOINGS ON AROUND TOWN THIS WEEK & NEXT
Fitch Mountain
The Healdsburg Museum continues its newest exhibition, “Trails to Fitch Mountain,” about the human and natural history of our local landmarks, the mountain and the river, until Oct. 13. Free admission, Wednesdays through Sundays, 11am to 4pm, 221 Matheson St.
Second Story
Americana artists appear almost every Thursday upstairs at Little Saint, including the bluesy Marty O’Reilly on Aug. 29, and durable troubadour Damien Jurado on Sept. 5. 25 North St., littlesainthealdsburg. com/music.
Last Dance Hey Jude, a Beatles tribute band, plays all the hits at the Windsor Town Green on Thursday, Aug. 29. This will be the final Summer Night on the Green this year. The Farmers’ Market starts at 5pm, the music plugs in from 6-8pm.
Friday Climax
San Francisco’s Stone Foxes play rock & roll this week at Cloverdale’s final Friday Night Live show of the year, Aug. 30. Street fair 6pm, live music 7-9:30pm.
Friday Night Lights
The 2024 prep football season gets underway Friday, Aug. 30, as the revitalized Healdsburg Greyhounds face off against the Cloverdale Eagles, 7pm at Rec Park. Go Hounds!
HEALDSBURG HAPPENINGS
Double Header Count ’em: Not one, but two bands for the price of none on Friday, Aug. 30. The Harvest Band plays a mix of Motown/soul/rockn-roll, while the Remedies bring the excitement of classic rock to the Coyote Den stage. Free show runs from 6-8:30pm, with food vendors on site at Coyote Sonoma, 44f Mill St.
History Talks Healdsburg Museum docents bring the past to life with these Saturday talks at the Gazebo. From 1010:30am enjoy an introductory program, “From Pomo Village to Destination Healdsburg,” followed by an hour-long deeper dive into the history of Healdsburg.
Farmers’ Market
Drop by the Healdsburg Farmers’ Market at North Street and Foss Creek on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 8:30am to noon, and/or on Tuesday morning from 9am to 12:30pm in the Plaza, for the best local produce in the area.
Jazz Trio
New tunes and old tunes made new by Doug Morton (piano and flugelhorn), Josh Fossgreen (bass) and Kendrick Freeman (drums) att Healdsburg Hotel’s Spirit Bar. Saturday, Aug. 31, 6-9pm. No cover, partial Dry Creek Kitchen menu available, 25 Matheson St.
Blues Blaster End August at the Elephant with Volker Strifler,
Saturday, Aug. 31, at 8pm, $15 cover ($20 at the door).
The pub also has music Fridays and Sundays, sometimes Tuesdays, maybe Thursdays—check out the Elephant, 177 Healdsburg Ave., www.elephantintheroompub.com.
Labor Day
Many government offices, schools and banks will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2, for Labor Day, the U.S. federal holiday to honor and recognize the American labor movement.
Monday Night Dance
A new program at The 222—dance classes and party on the first Monday of each month, starting Sept. 2. Dances are programmed by Lily Thrailkill, a dancer
with roots in East Coast Swing and blues fusion. Starts at 6:30pm, with the first half hour given over to instruction and then dancing to a DJ’d medley of classic and contemporary tunes until 9:30pm. $15 adult, free for students 18 and under. 222 Healdsburg Ave., the222.org.
Starting Thursday
The Germans Upstairs will open its two-week run at the Raven Performing Arts Theater. It’s the premiere of a new play by Francine Schwartz based on a true family story dating from the Occupation of Paris, 1940. Audience will be seated on the stage with the actors performing in the center for this moving story of human struggles in a world war. Tickets $25, $10 students; performances 7:30pm on
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 2pm on Sundays from Sept. 5 through Sept. 15. Tickets at www.raventheater.org.
Chili Cook-Off
Annual spicy savory showdown organized by the Windsor Chamber of Commerce, Saturday, Sept. 7. It’s in support of Food for Thought, and includes panel-judged winners for both traditional and homestyle chili, with live music. Noon to 4pm at the Windsor Town Green; tickets $35 adults, $10 kids, at windsorchamber.com/ chili-cook-off.
Post events on the Tribune’s online calendar at healdsburgtribune.com/ calendar and send special announcements to editor@ healdsburgtribune.com.
Photo Courtesy of Bands of Enchantment
FINALE The year’s last show at Cloverdale’s Friday Night Live will feature indie-rock sensation the Stone Foxes, at the town’s plaza on Aug. 30.
POLITICS
Postcard From the DNC, Chicago
HEALDSBURG’S FORMER MAYOR SEES NATIONAL POLITICS IN ACTION
By Ariel Kelley
Last weekend, when I arrived back home from the Democratic National Convention, my first stop was a visit to the Sonoma County Democratic Party’s “Blue Wave BBQ & Bluau.” Still
buzzing with excitement from the prior few days in Chicago, it was a pleasant surprise to see that the energy had followed me home to Sonoma County.
Local volunteers were organizing postcard parties, phone banks and trips to talk to voters in the key swing state of Nevada. Community activists were plotting how to best support our excellent Democratic nominees in key redto-blue congressional seats
across California. And our local Democratic clubs were fired up—reporting higher membership and greater excitement than they’ve seen in years.
All of this is possible not because of the Harris-Walz campaign and the Democratic Convention—to me it’s actually about something so much bigger than a few days in Chicago. It’s more than days of speeches contrasting our agenda with
the darkness of Donald Trump and the dangers of Project 2025. It’s even about more than the ticket itself, though we’re incredibly fortunate to have such excellent candidates representing our party up and down the ballot.
It’s about—as Pete Buttigieg put it—a better kind of politics.
The kind of politics that exists when we’re brought together by rhetoric that is visionary, not vindictive. The policy that exists when we run on an agenda focused on expanding freedoms, not stripping them away. And the people we engage when we unite our communities through joy, not blind them by hate.
That was the true throughline I saw in Chicago. That there is hope in that kind of politics; but there is also power in fighting for the future instead of stewing over the past.
Healdsburg may be deep blue, but flipping the House of Representatives will hinge on the work we do in swing states and also right here in California. Holding the Senate and the presidency is only possible if our volunteer efforts activate voters in key swing states nationwide.
And that better kind of politics is achievable if we all show up, have the tough conversations and do the hard work of being engaged.
After all, it’s not too bold to suggest that women should have the freedom to
choose what they do with their own bodies. That kids are free from gun violence in schools and at home, and that you are free to marry who you love. That working families should have the freedom not to have to choose between putting food on the table or paying the rent.
That’s what the Democratic National Convention reminded us of. That’s what the Harris-Walz campaign is all about. A campaign for the people and for the future—because we’re not going back.
Ariel Kelley is a Healdsburg City Council member.
SKYVIEW Looking down on the floor of the Democratic National Convention as Kamala Harris gives her acceptance speech, Aug. 23.
Photos Courtesy of Ariel Kelley
WITNESS Healdsburg’s Ariel Kelley bathes in the atmosphere of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, on Aug. 23, 2024.
an impact on civic life into the next year.
On stage, the enduring local sextet Soul Fuse blasted the blues, with two saxophones and a trombone giving the music that Memphis feel. Naturally, attendees engaged in some spontaneous dancing, made flexible and confident by the Rodney Strong wines served.
Kin Family Catering, of Kinsmoke in Healdsburg and Windsor, provided the food.
The event included several fundraising activities, including a “heads-or-tails” competition in which the winner received passes to all Chamber events for the upcoming year; and a “wine pull” where attendees paid $20 for a ticket, drew a random number and received
the corresponding bottle of wine, donated by other Chamber member wineries.
“All the funds go to help support economic development, workforce development, our advocacy—just our programs and the events we put on throughout the year,” Hart said.
While final fundraising figures are not yet available for this year’s event, last year’s barbecue—termed a Barbecue Luau—raised about $12,000, much of which was donated to Maui in the wake of the fire in Lahaina.
A number of awards were bestowed, voted on by an appointed committee of Chamber members, included the following:
Business of the Year : Healdsburg Lumber Company, which this past year moved from its historic location on Hudson Street to a new, expanded warehouse and store on Healdsburg Avenue.
& No-Profit of the Year: Healdsburg Forever, a community fund that encourages philanthropy in the Healdsburg/Geyserville area.
New Business of the Year: Healdsburg Bubble Bar, Sara Quider’s “Parisian chic” champagne and sparkling wines tasting room on North Street.
Business Person of the Year: Jim Heid of Craftwork, who by coincidence will serve as chair of the Chamber of Commerce board of directors in 2025.
Emerging Leader of the Year: Jaime Gutierrez, a young Healdsburg local now with Sotheby’s Realty.
Chamber Champions:
Team William & Williams, a real estate auction group out of Compass Realty.
Recognition of Outstanding Service : Elizabeth Holmes, for her accounting work at the Healdsburg Chamber of Commerce (and voiceover talents).
LIBRARY
At the Mini Library, people will be able to pick up requests made through our catalog, in addition to accessing a limited browsing collection. Our newspapers and magazines will be available to read on comfortable seating. A few computers will be available for accessing the internet or printing documents, along with our usual copier/print station. Library staff will be on hand to help with borrowing and reference questions.
Continuing Library Programs
Our library programs will be limited for a few weeks, but we will still provide basic programming, largely from classrooms in the Community Center. For example, on Sept. 3, our Brown Bag Book Club will discuss Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson, at noon in Room 4. Our new and popular Baby Cafe and Mama Circle will be offered each Monday at 10:30am in Room 4. Starting in October, we plan to offer Storytimes and other children’s and family programming as well, including periodic Storytimes in the Park. In
September, Miss Charity will focus on helping establish the new Mini Library as well as starting a new grant-funded program, Take Time To Read. That program will feature monthly programs to encourage families to read together, connect with other families and develop their joy of reading for fun. The first such event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 11am at Byron Gibbs Park, and will include lunch, book giveaways, Read to a Dog and a special Storytime. For more information, visit sonomalibrary.org/visit/ librarymodernization.
CLASSY RIDE Standing behind the 2024 Corvette on loan from Healdsburg Chrysler Dodge Jeep are, from left, Susan Halstead, Tallia Hart and Amanda Parks, with Jessica Bohon and Daniella Nicholas in the front seat. They were attending the annual Chamber BBQ & Blues Party, held at Rodney Strong on Aug. 21.
Photos by Rick Tang
BIBLIOBUS The Sonoma County Library’s books-on-wheels vehicle will be parked at the Healdsburg Library most of the week, for limited browsing and picking up books on hold. Jessica Romero, at left, and Simone Yingst of Sonoma County Library await their customers.
Photo by Christian Kallen
Greyhounds in the Hunt for a Win
SEASON BEGINS WITH HWY 101 RIVALRY VS. CLOVERDALE
By Caleb Knudsen
The 2024-25 school year began earlier this month, but the high school’s football players were already practicing—learning blocking, routes and plays—for the third coach in three years.
Robert “Bear” Gray coached the team from 2021-22, Randy Parmeter in 2023 and this year former HHS athlete Criss Rosales controls the clipboard. During that span of time, the team won only three games, all of them in the 2021-22 season.
So the taste of victory is but a memory to the Greyhounds—or, more optimistically, a promise.
Rosales is an optimist.
“These kids are very passionate, determined and overall hungry,” the young coach said. “They have embraced our program and have run with all the hard work in the classroom and on the field.”
The game comes on the heels of a regional scrimmage held last weekend at Montgomery High. Both varsity and JV players came out, wearing helmets and pads but not fully uniformed. As well as Healdsburg, participating teams included Novato High, Montgomery, Cardinal Newman and Richmond High School.
“These scrimmages help us coaches evaluate things that need to be
tweaked, better coached, and shows us our strengths versus other opponents,” Rosales said. Though the teams don’t keep score at scrimmages such as this, Rosales perceived some opportunities and advantages this year’s roster can bring to the field.
“The Novato match was pretty even. Since we [will] play each other in season, I believe both sides kept it strictly basic,” the coach reported. “The Richmond match really highlighted some strengths to the boys. The Montgomery match was definitely a scrappy one—there’s old history with Healdsburg vs. Montgomery that seems to still be alive.”
The other team on the field, Cardinal Newman, is a traditional powerhouse in the North Bay. Rosales and the players recognized “there was nothing to ‘win’ there by having our starters in,” so kept the players on the field to JV.
Even though the insignificant scrimmage took the better part of the afternoon last Saturday, the players and the coaches felt lessons were learned.
One of those lessons was that this year’s turnout is strong, and positive.
“These kids play their roles phenomenally on offense and spread the ball around. Truly no egos,” Rosales said.
The coaching staff is rounded out by former pro Taylor Tappin, Patrick Tappin as defensive coordinator, running-back coach Alex Johnson and a number of others, many
of whom Rosales himself played or coached with.
These include Nick Barrio, Brett Ghisletta and Healdsburg record-holder Mike Johnson.
Then there are the veterans: Andy Rosales, Brett Bruner, Alexis Gonzalez and Chris Dow on staff, “all very important coaches with a deep history in Healdsburg,” Rosales said.
One of the takeaways from previous seasons is that, while the Healdsburg offense can score, the
defense has been porous and the team has lost by sometimes embarrassing scores. This time Rosales said the defense was “very reminiscent of the traditional Healdsburg Greyhounds football teams from the past,” with every team member focused on following and getting to the ball.
Though the team lost several key players to graduation last year— including Austin Collins and Tyler Swanson—a high number of starters
returned from last year’s team, all of whom should play an improved game.
These include Nova Perrill II at quarterback, Xander Harms at running back, Hayden Mariani at wide receiver and utility player Frank Rea. Defensive linebackers Max Morris and Dillan Jocius returned, with Nathaniel Rowland at defensive end and Areum Romero at cornerback.
The first test for the Rosales Era comes this Friday, Aug. 30, when
the Greyhounds meet the Cloverdale Eagles for the season opener. Cloverdale is coming off a 1-9 season (Healdsburg played 10 games, and got a tie). The two teams did not meet last year, but with only a dozen road miles between the two schools, some healthy competition can be expected.
Varsity kickoff is scheduled for 7pm (JV kickoff at 4:30pm), Friday, Aug. 30, at Rec Park.
Photos by Joe Rowland
CONVERGENCE Healdsburg defenders follow the ball during a scrimmage on Aug. 24, closing in on a Novato runner. The Greyhounds’ first game is Friday, Aug. 30, against Cloverdale.
LEARNING CURVE Criss Rosales served as assistant coach at St. Vincent de Paul last year when
a state championship. This is his first year as head coach at Healdsburg High.
Hoot Hoot, Woot Woot
AMBASSADOR OWL HAS LESSONS TO SHARE
By Pierre Ratte
Meet Vihar, “V” for short.
She’s a great horned owl living on Chanate Road. She’s one of several ambassador birds at The Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County (BRC), a local resource that’s been around for 50 years and needs help.
Most birds come to the Center because someone calls and says:
“Help, I’ve found a bird.”
Maybe that bird injured a wing, fell out of a nest or is sick. Whatever the
circumstance, BRC takes it in. Its motto is: Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release.
Every bird admitted to BRC has its own medical record. Veterinary paperwork at BRC is next-level protocol, to say nothing of the care provided. Each bird has a mini-clipboard medical chart. Feeding intervals are 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 1, 2 or 4 hours. Which can be challenging with a half-dozen baby quail hiding and scurrying through comfy green plants, or seven ospreys consuming a pound of salmon per day each.
BRC is a hospital and rehabilitation center that operates on and cares for injured birds until they heal. It carefully evaluates
the birds for their ability to survive and thrive in a planned release, and monitors them to ensure their success once they return to their native habitats.
V lives at BRC as an ambassador. Unable to hunt, she’s been fed and nurtured for 20 years. She is one of several long-term resident ambassadors.
BRC needs all the ambassadors and help it can get. It admits roughly 3,000 birds annually, spanning 150 species, and is the only facility accepting all native bird species in a five-county area. Volunteers are welcome.
Fun Facts: V can exert 200 pounds per square inch with her talons, yet sits patiently on her
handler’s gloved hand. Her head swivels 270 degrees compensating for a lack of eye muscles; owls’ eyes are stationary. Owls fly silently. A grouping of owls is a “parliament” or a “congress.”
BRC’s facility is “for the birds”—pun and not punny. The Center, a World War II Quonset hut and outbuildings—think MASH 4077—works heroics in severely suboptimal quarters.
The 501(c)(3) organization is working to upgrade to a modern avian hospital and rehab center. Consider visiting, helping or donating. V would love to meet you. Find out more at www.birdrescuecenter.org.
Healdsburg—although the City of Sonoma, by contrast, has a “Plaza Retail Overlay Zone” that does include some adjacent storefronts.
Standing Alone
When the City Council began the discussion on formula stores last week, it quickly became evident that Kelley was alone in her level of concern about the issue.
Councilmember Chris Herrod immediately raised
the question of how to make exceptions to any limit on downtown stores, in case of an economic downturn. Councilman Ron Edwards foresaw a decision path that would be similar to the year-long consideration of cannabis businesses in town. Vice Mayor Evelyn Mitchel complained that she wasn’t sure what the council was being asked to do. And Mayor David Hagele shrugged that “things go in cycles” before opening the question to public comment.
That brought a number of local business owners
to the podium, almost all of whom were united in their opposition to formula stores and baffled that there was in fact nothing binding. They emphasized the local ownership and employees of most Plaza businesses, and emphasized that Healdsburg’s success depends at least in part on its identity.
Eventually a vague consensus was arrived at that something might need to be done, but there didn’t seem to be any real urgency. As Kay said later, “since our current implementation of the GP policy is the same,
that isn’t terribly consequential from my perspective.”
He went on to articulate a likely path forward. “I think it makes sense to approach that process thoughtfully and start with a consensus about what we are trying to accomplish,” he said. “When this returns to council, staff will bring an analysis of the pros and cons of some of the policy options.”
Meanwhile another formula store has expressed interest in opening on or near the Healdsburg Plaza— Johnny Was, with its selection of “boho-chic clothing”
I don’t think you want them here, even though they’re nice guys. And it’s surf wear. We don’t even have a beach.
for men and women. As Kelley stated during the meeting, “I think this is an issue where either way, whatever the council
decides we want to do, it’s not something we want to just let pass by—because I do believe this is going to be a slippery-slope issue.”
She was at home in Healdsburg, California, a place she cherished and was committed to for many years. Ginny was an active member of many environmental groups including the Sonoma Land Trust, Audubon Canyon Ranch, and the Humane Society of Sonoma County. As a young girl Ginny and her family fostered and raised a mountain lion as well as other animals for the Milwaukee Zoo where she volunteered much of her time. Ginny did extensive work tracking mountain lions in Sonoma County. She was instrumental in setting up the trail camera program at Audubon Canyon Ranch and she worked with Living with Lions collaring and monitoring mountain lions. An article from their December 2023 newsletter, the Sonoma Land Trust said “Ginny brings a lifetime of experience to her work with our staff to document critical wildlife corridors on our preserves. We are so grateful for Ginny’s contributions to our efforts to understand and preserve biodiversity in Sonoma County.”
Ginny enjoyed many hobbies and recreational pursuits; she loved the outdoors and was an avid hiker. Additionally, she enjoyed open water swimming and was a certified scuba diver. Following in her parents’ footsteps, Ginny was a private pilot, earning her license at a young age. Her intellectual curiosity and sense of adventure led her to travel the world extensively.
Ginny was born to Marilyn Kieckhefer Fifield and Thomas B. Fifield in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1954, the youngest of three children. Ginny graduated from Brown University and received her MSW from University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. She will be greatly missed by the many friends she maintained throughout her K-12 years at University School of Milwaukee and beyond. Ginny was a wonderful sister to brothers George (deceased 2022) and John (Sandi) of New York City; she leaves many dear friends, beloved cousins, her niece and nephew, Jocie Fifield (Tim Corkum) and Ben Fifield (Yang Yang Zhou), and grand niece and nephew Coco and Leo Fifield.
Contributions in Ginny’s memory can be made to Sonoma County Land Trust and Audubon Canyon Ranch.
Photo by Christian Kallen
BIRD GAZE This great horned owl is an ambassador bird at the Bird Rescue Center in Santa Rosa, whose motto is, ‘Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release.’
Photo by Pierre Ratte
CRIMES AND CONCERNS, REPORTED AUG. 12-18
Monday, August 12
• 11:55am The Reporting Party (RP) believed a person stole her iPhone 14 while she was at River Rock Casino. She stated the phone was taken on Aug. 10, and did not realize it was gone till Aug. 12. The RP pinged the phone to a location. Officers responded to the area and were able to make contact with the person with the phone. Officers brought the phone to the police department, where the owner retrieved it.
• 1:26pm The RP at Your Pets Market on Vine Street said that sometime between Aug. 10-12 someone vandalized the deadbolt to the back door. The RP did not want to press charges unless he could get footage from the landlord. The RP wanted the police to be aware of the situation.
2:59pm A person at Flyers on Healdsburg Avenue was stopped for a probation check. The 39-year-old (YO) man was cited and released for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription and violation of probation.
3:56pm A vehicle was stopped at the Windsor Park & Ride on Old Redwood Hwy. A 41-YO man was arrested and transported to county jail for possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a license suspended for driving under the influence (DUI), driving while addicted to drugs, violating probation and driving under the influence of drugs.
Tuesday, August 13
12:39am A vehicle on Hwy 101 at Independence Lane was stopped. A 51-YO man was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and
on outstanding Sonoma and Napa county warrants regarding possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license. He was transported to county jail.
9:34am Graffiti was reported at the Railroad Bridge on Front Street.
9:44am An officer contacted a 33-YO man in the West Point Parking Lot on Healdsburg Avenue. He was cited and released on an outstanding Sonoma County warrant regarding drunk driving and driving without a license.
10:36am The RP on Oakleaf Avenue at Sunnyvale Drive called about reckless drivers in the area and wanted a radar trailer placed in the area. The request was forwarded to parking enforcement.
• 11:32am An unlicensed driver was cited on Healdsburg Avenue.
• 1:08pm Petty theft occurred at Big John’s Market on Healdsburg Avenue. A man stole a burrito. The woman he was with stole beauty products and three containers of hot food. The RP was willing to press charges and a report was taken.
6:12pm A belligerent woman on the patio at Costeaux French Bakery on Healdsburg Avenue was trying to fight with people. Officers responded and released the woman to her husband.
Wednesday, August 14
12:50am A vehicle was stopped for having an unreadable license plate on Redwood Hwy at Westside Road. A 41-YO man was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, violation of probation and driving with a suspended license. He was transported to county jail.
9:00am Graffiti was reported on a fence on Lupine Road.
10:02am Graffiti was reported on Monte Vista Avenue at Alexandria Drive.
11:12am A probation search was conducted on Badger Street. A 42-YO
POLICE LOG
man was arrested and transported to county jail for grand theft, fraudulent use of a credit card, theft or misappropriation of lost property, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of probation.
• 12:27pm The RP was a third party in the emergency room at Healdsburg District Hospital on University Avenue. The RP stated that a pregnant patient was asked to pull over by a truck. While out of her vehicle, she was kicked and strangled. The victim did not know where or when the incident occurred.
An officer responded and took a report.
• 12:36pm The RP at Russian River Trailer Park on Healdsburg Avenue stated that a person who was trespassed from the location was back at the location. An officer responded. A 55YO man was cited and released for trespassing.
• 2:14pm The RP at Victory Apartments on East Street indicated that the RP was hit by a vehicle. The suspect vehicle fled the scene with an 18-monthold child in the vehicle.
The 34-YO male suspect was arrested on Mountain View Drive and transported to county jail for child endangerment, assault with a deadly weapon, felony hit-and-run with injury, and resisting arrest.
2:55pm A woman who appeared to be highly intoxicated was sprawled on a bench on Plaza Street at Center Street. Her dog ran loose in the roadway. When an officer responded, the woman was gone on arrival and unable to be located.
5:01pm The RP indicated that her vehicle at Fitch Mountain Terrace I on South Fitch Mountain Road was keyed. The RP believed it happened on Aug. 12, and stated that a neighbor saw a woman standing near her vehicle. An officer responded and attempted to make contact with the suspect. An incident number was provided to the RP for insurance purposes.
6:03pm The RP stated that
a tree company completely blocked the road near the Healdsburg High School on Prince Avenue to prune a tree. An officer responded and contacted the company about violating a city ordinance. The company opened the road.
6:45pm Two men fought near Casa Del Mole on Center Street. Officers met with the victim who did not want to press charges.
Thursday, August 15
• 12:36am An officer cited and released a 32-YO man on Old Redwood Hwy on an outstanding Sonoma County warrant regarding shoplifting and violating probation.
• 11:17am The RP at Hotel Trio on Dry Creek Road noticed there were multiple dents on her bumper from a hit-and-run accident. The RP did not want to press charges, but wanted the police to be aware of the situation.
1:20pm Graffiti was reported at Chevron South on Healdsburg Avenue.
1:56pm An officer contacted a 40-YO man in the West Plaza Parking lot for a probation check. He was cited and released for violation of probation.
3:17pm An unlicensed driver was cited near Tip Top Liquor Warehouse on Dry Creek Road.
7:47pm A man and woman stole from Safeway on Vine Street. Officers responded. A 25-YO man was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, shoplifting and possession of nitrous oxide. An 18-YO woman was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, shoplifting and possession of nitrous oxide. Both people were transported to county jail.
11:19pm A man and woman were yelling at each other on East Street at Plaza Street. Officers responded. An emergency protective order was granted. A 35-YO man was arrested and transported to county jail for assault with a deadly weapon and domestic battery.
Friday, August 16
8:29pm A man was laying in the roadway near the West Plaza Parking Lot on Healdsburg Avenue. The RP stated the man hit his head. Officers responded and the man was transported to Healdsburg District Hospital. A report was taken.
• 8:44pm A drunk driver was reported near the Central off ramp of Hwy 101. The vehicle hit something in the roundabout and continued northbound on Vine Street. Officers responded and located the vehicle near the West Grant Street apartments. A 54-YO man was arrested and transported to county jail for drunk driving.
Saturday, August 17
6:38am Graffiti was reported at Giorgi Park on University Street.
7:46am Graffiti was reported at the Oak Grove Apartments on Grove Street.
• 2:13pm The RP stated a man at La Tradicion Market on Healdsburg Avenue yelled at customers and yelled expletives at the RP. Officers responded and advised the man he was no longer allowed on the property. The business owner planned to file trespassing paperwork against the man.
Sunday, August 18
10:15am Graffiti was reported on Lupine Road at Theresa Court. 12:22pm The RP on
Compiled by Carolyn Brenner
Photo by Christian Kallen
OPEN DOOR The Healdsburg Police Department is located at 238 Center St.