The views expressed here are the author's own The Rock Stars of Furniture & Fine Woodworking are coming to Healdsburg Come meet a group of acclaimed west coast wood artists for an all day celebration most of our California wood artists will be at our Annex to showcase their wood furniture and art and more!10% of carved bird sales will be donated to​the Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County Wednesday, 5:30 pmNovato, CA Saturday, 9:00 amNovato, CA Saturday, 7:00 pmLarkspur-Corte Madera, CA Chef Jacob Harth will open Bistro Lagniappe later this spring Chef/ownerJacob Harth will bring a world of culinary experience to Bistro Lagniappe Friday opening this spring in the former home of Molti Amici in Healdsburg barnacles and other sustainable seafood from the Winnie's pop-up in September 2024 Chef Jacob Harth is leading the charge at the new Bistro Lagniappe at the former Molti Amici location in Healdsburg Wood-fired oysters will be on the menu at Bistro Lagniappe a new restaurant in Healdsburg from chef Jacob Harth Sustainable seafood is a specialty of chef Jacob Harth who is opening Bistro Lagniappe in Healdsburg Chef Jacob Harth will open Bistro Lagniappe in Healdsburg later this spring The back patio at Molti Amici (formerly Campo Fina) in Healdsburg Wednesday The restaurant is reopening as Bistro Lagniappe later this spring A dish from SingleThread alum David Sisler and Portland chef Jacob Harth's forthcoming restaurant previewed at a September 2024 pop-up at Healdsburg’s Maison Wine Bar Yellow outdoor seating at Healdsburg's Molti Amici which closed last fall and will reopen this spring with a fresh vision and a new name: Bistro Lagniappe Mugnaini pizza oven at Molti Amici in Healdsburg Topping a Margherita pizza with parmesan from Molti Amici in Healdsburg Wednesday Danielle Peters makes a Capriccio with Gin Caperberry and S&P Bitters behind the bar at Molti Amici in Healdsburg Wednesday Healdsburg’s Molti Amici, which closed abruptly in November last year amid financial struggles and embezzlement accusations will reopen this spring with a fresh vision and a new name – Bistro Lagniappe Chef Jacob Harth is leading the charge at the new Healdsburg bistro. He first captured local attention last September at a pop-up preview of Winnie’s a seafood restaurant centered around responsibly sourced West Coast seafood Bistro Lagniappe is set to make its debut this spring with a menu focused on wood-fired dishes inspired by both California and French countryside cooking “Bistro Lagniappe will showcase California countryside cooking inspired by the rural routiers (roadside restaurants) and bistros of France informed by the best ingredients from Sonoma County,” Harth said Harth described his cooking style as “minimalist and straightforward allowing our exceptional local artisans to shine.” “While we will not be working together moving forward we have worked collaboratively to reach an agreement that enables each of us to focus on our respective paths and future endeavors.” Harth said Thursday that Cutrer is no longer in the public-facing role he assumed after the closure of Molti Amici but that Cutrer and other Molti Amici investors will retain ownership stakes in Bistro Lagniappe The Healdsburg Avenue space will give Harth a key tool to use in crafting his cuisine which can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees is a centerpiece of the expansive patio behind the restaurant The oven was built by chef Ari Rosen when Campo Fina occupied the space. (The Italian restaurant closed after 10 years in 2022, with a downtown Healdsburg funeral parade mourning its loss It was forced to shutter due to skyrocketing rent “It’s a powerful heat source and has been used in people’s homes for hundreds of years,” Harth said Though brick ovens are a favorite of pizza-makers the Lagniappe menu will feature comfort dishes like cassoulet roasted oysters and wood-fired fish – no pizzas Before taking over the former Molti Amici location, Harth earned national acclaim for his Portland-based restaurant, Erizo, which was named one of Eater’s “16 Best New Restaurants of 2019.” Erizo’s menu was built around a sustainable seafood tasting experience with an emphasis on invasive species such as purple sea urchins bycatch and seasonal seafood from sustainable fisheries Harth even obtained a commercial fishing license to harvest rarely used seafood Bistro Lagniappe will initially be open for dinner with plans to expand into weekend brunch down the line Dear Reader,Unfortunately our comment platform isn\'t available at the moment due to issues with our paywall and authentication vendor The investigation into the altercation began Tuesday evening when police responded to a reported assault victim in the emergency room at Healdsburg Hospital Lea el artículo en español aquí. Three teenage boys were arrested Wednesday in connection with a fight in Healdsburg where police said a gun was used to hit a man but said they were Sonoma County residents All three were booked into Sonoma County Juvenile Hall on a range of charges when Healdsburg police responded to the emergency department at Healdsburg Hospital for a reported assault victim The 19-year-old Healdsburg man had non-life-threatening injuries Surveillance footage later showed a fight had broken out around 6 p.m near East and Mill streets after three teenagers came across the man and his adult family member the man was hit multiple times with a firearm and the family member witnessed it but did not participate Authorities are still investigating what prompted the fight which Jenkins said is partially due to state regulations on questioning minors He added it would be “premature and inappropriate to speculate” the cause Officers eventually identified three suspects and arrested them the next day police arrested a 16-year-old boy on North Street unregistered handgun in the teen’s waistband Jenkins said police also received information that he may have brought the gun onto a school campus outside Healdsburg He was arrested on suspicion of eight charges possessing a gun in a school zone and battery causing serious bodily injury were arrested just before lunch time at Healdsburg High School Police worked with the Healdsburg Unified School District to get the students out of any classrooms before they were detained One of the teenagers was arrested on suspicion of brandishing a firearm and aiding and abetting — or helping someone else commit a crime The other faces charges of battery causing serious bodily injury Jenkins said the incident doesn’t appear to be random and police believe they’ve detained everyone involved You can reach Staff Writer Madison Smalstig at madison.smalstig@pressdemocrat.com Silicon Valley’s glow and San Francisco’s skyline steal most of Northern California’s spotlight yet the region’s true identity still hums along a constellation of two-lane main streets those same ribbons of storefronts offer something you won’t find on the Bay Bridge: redwood-framed barbershops tasting rooms pouring wine made five miles away and bakeries proofing dough in 19th-century brick ovens Think of it as a living time-lapse: every block is a single frame flicking from lumber boom to farm-to-table chic in the space of a crosswalk The ten downtown strips that follow aren’t ranked, but they do form a kind of road-ready playlist. Pair them like wine and vinyl—Truckee’s railroad echoes with Mendocino’s salt spray, Healdsburg’s Michelin swagger with Sutter Creek’s pick-axe grit. Roll down Highway 1 or twist through the Gold Country; each stop proves that in Northern California history and reinvention share the same ZIP code Grass Valley's vibrant past is marked by its roots in the 19th-century Gold Rush This legacy is evident in its well-preserved downtown architecture These historic sites not only highlight the town’s past but also continue to serve as central hubs of activity Downtown Grass Valley offers an array of fantastic attractions The Center for the Arts presents a regular schedule of performances and exhibitions Culinary offerings are abundant at restaurants like Cirino’s at Main Street which offers a local twist on American breakfast classics For those interested in local crafts and produce the Grass Valley Farmers Market at the historic North Star House provides a weekly opportunity to engage with local vendors and artisans Sebastopol reflects its agrarian roots merged with a burgeoning bohemian culture Historically a plum and apple growing region it has transformed into a center for organic farming and the arts A prominent feature of its cultural landscape is the Florence Avenue where local artists Patrick Amiot and Brigitte Laurent display whimsical junk art sculptures on front lawns housing entities such as Spirit Works Distillery and the Woodfour Brewing Company Eateries like The Wild Poppy Cafe offer locally sourced dishes and the Sebastopol Cookie Company is known for handmade treats using traditional methods Ives Park provides a green retreat in the center of town hosting events like the annual Sebastopol Apple Blossom Festival Rialto Cinemas showcases independent films is distinguished as a key railroad town during the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad Its historical significance is preserved in the meticulously restored buildings along Donner Pass Road where the Old Jail Museum stands as a testament to Truckee's colorful past The town's commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering a dynamic community is evident in its vibrant downtown strip Bar & Beats offers a blend of fine dining with live jazz music Coffeebar Truckee provides a meeting place for both locals and tourists seeking artisanal coffee in a contemporary setting Bespoke offers handcrafted goods that emphasize sustainable and local craftsmanship Art aficionados can visit the Carmel Gallery where fine art photography and paintings of the scenic Sierra Nevada are on display stands out for its historical significance as one of California's former state capitals This unique aspect of its past is immortalized at the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park where the original capitol building still resides The city’s history as a major military arsenal is another cornerstone of its identity with converted buildings now serving as centers for art and community gatherings Downtown Benicia’s First Street is a waterfront thoroughfare offering panoramic bay views and a plethora of local businesses which specializes in seafood with views of the Carquinez Strait known for its historic ambiance and Italian cuisine a gallery that features contemporary exhibitions the Benicia Marina provides a scenic spot for walks and outdoor activities St. Helena is a Napa Valley legend celebrated for its pivotal role in developing the region’s wine industry rural community into a sophisticated hub for wine production and gastronomy marked by its historical vineyards and longstanding culinary traditions The presence of the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone Helena’s significance in culinary education and innovation Main Street in St. Helena encapsulates the charm and luxury of the Napa Valley Visitors can dine at renowned establishments like The Model Bakery famous for its artisanal breads and pastries or enjoy a meal at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch which offers a farm-to-table dining experience the historic Beringer Vineyards provide tastings and tours Art lovers can explore the Christopher Hill Gallery featuring works by local and international artists the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum celebrates the famous author’s brief but impactful residency in the area Mendocino perched on the rugged cliffs of Northern California is unique for its New England-style architecture a legacy of its founding by settlers from Maine in the 1850s This scenic town not only offers spectacular ocean views but also a history steeped in the logging and fishing industries now transitioned into a haven for artists and ecotourists fostering artistic growth and community involvement The town's downtown strip is compact but rich with distinct places to visit Café Beaujolais operates out of a historic building dating back to 1893 serving locally sourced cuisine in a charming setting the Goodlife Café and Bakery offers organic fare and fresh pastries Art aficionados can peruse the Highlight Gallery which features fine arts and crafts from local artisans Outdoor activities are also accessible with Mendocino Headlands State Park providing trails that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ferndale flaunts some exceptionally preserved Victorian architecture earning it the nickname "Victorian Village." This distinctive characteristic is due to the town’s prosperity in the late 1800s from dairy farming which allowed for elaborate homes and buildings that have been meticulously maintained to this day The entire Main Street is part of a registered historic district which provides a unique backdrop that transports visitors to a bygone era Main Street in Ferndale is lined with various points of interest Dining options include the Victorian Inn Restaurant known for serving hearty meals in a historic setting the Ferndale Art Gallery showcases works by local artists emphasizing the community’s ongoing commitment to supporting the arts Ferndale Museum offers insights into the town’s agricultural and social history enriching visitors' understanding of the area’s heritage known as the "Jewel of the Mother Lode," is situated in Amador County and forms part of California’s historic Gold Rush region This town stands out for its 19th-century architecture which is reflective of its prosperous mining era lined with wooden sidewalks and period buildings provides an authentic historical experience allowing visitors to step back into the mid-1800s showcasing artifacts from the gold mining days Bella Grace Vineyards offers wine tastings in a 1900s-era cellar creating a blend of local viticulture and history Hotel Sutter features American bistro cuisine served in a building that dates back to 1858 enriching the town’s entertainment offerings displays a range of contemporary and traditional art Healdsburg sits at the confluence of the Russian River and is a pivotal wine industry hub in Sonoma County Its history as a farming community transformed dramatically with the wine boom leading to its current status as a culinary and viticulture center hosting seasonal farmers' markets and public concerts encapsulating the town's community-focused spirit the downtown strip offers a sophisticated mix of dining a restaurant and inn providing a farm-to-table experience highlighting the high culinary standards found here Flying Goat Coffee serves artisanal brews in a casual setting Art lovers can explore the Healdsburg Center for the Arts which showcases local and regional artists wine-tasting rooms like Williamson Wines offer samples of local varietals right in the heart of downtown often paired with gourmet food to enhance the experience Each of these downtown strips compresses gold dust cabernet and redwood resin into a few walkable blocks Sample them sequentially and you conduct a movable seminar on Northern California’s economic and cultural geology—mining and listen: the creak of wooden boardwalks still rhymes with tomorrow’s start‑ups reminding travelers that progress and preservation can share the same barstool any sunny afternoon photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com The longtime Healdsburg sausage spot will become The Burrow in May The outdoor seating area at Healdsburg restaurant The Wurst off Matheson Street The Wurst will become The Burrow in Healdsburg Navigating the Healdsburg food scene can be perilous for new restaurant owners Locals have strong feelings about the lack of affordable family-friendly restaurants in the upscale tourist mecca while restaurant owners face steep rents and skyrocketing food costs that can easily break them The new owners of The Burrow (formerly The Wurst) are trying to straddle the line with their forthcoming restaurant — and after seeing a draft of the menu are transforming the longtime burger and sausage palace into a casual café with approachable yet inspired appetizers a handful of entrées and a weekend brunch menu The couple also focuses on a strong craft beer selection with “only independent-certified brewers.” The Wurst will continue as a catering operation under former owner Melissa McDowell You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats A textile artist whose pieces have been exhibited at numerous galleries and museums Seventy was known for her decorative bowls made with found objects who kept her life private but was known widely as an artist created handmade paper bowls decorated with beads Inspired in part by her studies of Pomo Indians’ art she created her bowl-shaped vessels using molds she taught at Becoming Independent in Berkeley and worked as a professor in the Fine Arts Department at Santa Rosa Junior College in Santa Rosa “I see the field of education as a lifelong career path I taught my first workshop when I was in the seventh grade,” Seventy wrote in the artist statement for an exhibition at the junior college Seventy received a bachelor of arts degree from California State University and a master of fine arts degree from Lone Mountain College in San Francisco in 1978 The name Seventy was an anglicized version of her family’s original name and was given to an Austrian ancestor when he immigrated to the U.S. Numerous galleries and museums have featured Sylvia Seventy's work Her items were marketed online by Browngrotta Arts of Wilton Her work has been shown at the Oakland Museum her pieces were exhibited at the University Art Gallery at Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park the Santa Rosa Junior College Gallery and numerous other local venues In the artist’s statement for one of her exhibitions “My vessels have been a search for a spiritual connection to my daily life “The resemblance to ancient basketry and pottery forms expresses my appreciation for these humble utilitarian objects resting on the dusty shelves of historical collections.” She also reminisced online about the challenges of shipping her work cross-country for exhibition I shipped 11 paper vessels in two huge boxes via the Healdsburg Greyhound bus depot/office for an art exhibition in Manhattan at the Elements Gallery,” she wrote the boxes arrived DURING THE OPENING RECEPTION and for weeks I received notes from those who attended inquiring how had I managed to orchestrate such a ‘grand entrance.’” A public celebration of life for Sylvia Seventy has been scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m You can reach Staff Writer Dan Taylor at dan.taylor@pressdemocrat.com or 707-521-5243 EDITOR’S NOTE: This obituary has been updated to include information on the celebration of life event for Sylvia Seventy For those who primarily experience honey from a squeezable plastic bear a visit to Healdsburg’s new honey tasting room is an eye opener Nicole White’s her passion for honey from around the world led her to open Nicole White’s passion for honey from around the world led her to open and Imer Benavides taste exotic honey hope to pair with food at La Ruche Crunchy honey almond seed cookies from owner of La Ruche Baked Brie with Honey Caramelized Apples topped with walnuts and a drizzle of rosemary honey from Nicole White For those whose primary experience of honey centers on a squeezable plastic bear a visit to Healdsburg’s new honey tasting room There’s wildflower honey from a boreal forest in Northern Canada pine honey from Greece and creamed honey from Redwoods Monastery in Humboldt County plus selections from three local specialty producers Owner Nicole White says what she loves about honey is that it’s so different depending on where it comes from “If you’re into food and taste and experimenting that’s what I think is really fun about this,” she says Walk-in guests can enjoy casual tastings — coming soon are seated tastings with cheese, charcuterie and mead White hopes La Ruche helps others appreciate what a delicacy honey is “If you want to geek out about honey,” she says 409A Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. 707-909-0514, laruchehealdsburg.com This story was originally published in The Press Democrat. Read the full story here the takeover by Healdsburg Mgr LLC means for residents of the 100-bed assisted living facility which was run by Pacifica Senior Living Management before it entered Chapter 7 bankruptcy Around the time Pacifica Senior Living Management LLC declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy in March residents at Healdsburg Senior Living received notice that they needed to sign new management agreements would now be handling day-to-day operations at the 100-bed assisted living facility Pacifica Senior Living has also been hit with a number of high-profile legal judgments and settlements — including a $2.5 million settlement last year in a case relating to an incident at Healdsburg Senior Living despite the arrival of Healdsburg Mgr LLC at Healdsburg Senior Living it’s unclear whether any substantive leadership changes have taken place in part because of the layers of companies connected to the facility an attorney for Pacifica Companies wrote “it’s important to clarify that Pacifica Senior Living Management LLC and Healdsburg Senior Living are entirely separate entities Healdsburg Senior Living is managed by Healdsburg Mgr LLC.” reveals that that company didn’t exist until September In that initial filing with the California secretary of state’s office Knepler spent 13 years as Pacifica Senior Living’s chief operating officer and managing partner Knepler now holds those same titles for another newly registered company called Heritage Resource Group. A relative of one Healdsburg Senior Living resident told The Press Democrat that when a representative of the new management company there gave him a business card it identified her as working for Heritage Resource Group The layers of ownership and management are emblematic of the complicated business structures that define much of the elder care industry diversified corporations such as Pacifica Companies and its related entities is being shut down in Chapter 7 — a restrictive form of bankruptcy that requires the debtor to close its doors and cease operations — while another has formed to handle similar duties When The Press Democrat inquired about the Chapter 7 case earlier this month multiple representatives of Pacifica’s various entities failed to respond to requests for comment But five days after the news organization’s story about the case was published emailed to point out what he called factual errors “Pacifica Senior Living LLC does not own any senior care facilities,” Schultz wrote Schultz filed a declaration in the Chapter 7 case The declaration stated that Pacifica Senior Living Management provided accounting and financial analytics and dietary and culinary advice to its senior living homes It did not provide medical care or housing Schultz didn’t respond to a follow-up request to confirm that Pacifica Senior Living Management had handled those duties at Healdsburg Senior Living But multiple court documents suggest it did In the case that resulted in the $2.5 million settlement — brought by the family of Phyllis Johnson — the plaintiffs added Pacifica Senior Living Management to the list of defendants based on a deposition during which Knepler acknowledged the Pacifica entity had replaced a different manager at the site In a transcript of that March 2023 deposition so we were going to manage the community.” Healdsburg Senior Living Community is also among the “covered facilities” listed in a class-action settlement signed by Pacific Senior Living Management LLC Rather than respond to a series of questions from The Press Democrat for this story Schultz sent a written statement to the news organization which is publishing that statement in its entirety The statement cites Healdsburg Senior Living’s “exceptional care” and notes that an expansion of the facility is in the works We’d like to take a moment to clear up some confusion surrounding Pacifica Senior Living Management LLC and its connection to Healdsburg Senior Living Pacifica Senior Living Management LLC has never owned any senior living community when Pacifica Senior Living Management LLC was dissolved it no longer managed any communities It’s important to clarify that Pacifica Senior Living Management LLC and Healdsburg Senior Living are entirely separate entities Healdsburg Senior Living is managed by Healdsburg Mgr LLC financially stable community that remains deeply committed to providing exceptional care to our residents we are excited to announce that Healdsburg Senior Living is growing We’re expanding our services with the construction of a new Assisted Living building and the expansion of our Memory Care Program to better meet the needs of our residents and their families Our dedication to delivering high-quality care has not wavered We are enthusiastic about the future and look forward to continuing to serve our community with the excellence our residents deserve We hope this message helps to clarify any confusion and eliminate any concerns for our residents Individual facilities marketed by Pacifica Senior Living are controlled by separate limited partnerships or limited liability corporations — many of them ultimately tracing back in some way to Pacifica Companies — according to public ownership records a new elder care center on Airway Drive that remains under construction lists Pacifica Airway as the owner on the most recent property deed The signatory on the state business statements for both of those partnerships is Deepak Israni Until recently, the full list of “Pacifica Senior Living communities” could be found, and explored, on the company’s website. Shortly after the bankruptcy filing, the content on every page of the website went blank The Press Democrat examined 11 of those Pacifica communities — identified in listings posted by A Place for Mom a for-profit senior care referral service — around the Bay Area and Sacramento the other properties all are owned by entities headed by top Pacifica Companies or Pacifica Senior Living executives Two days after The Press Democrat published its story on the bankruptcy the Community Care Licensing Division — an office within the California Department of Social Services that oversees compliance and enforcement within a range of publicly licensed facilities — called a meeting with Pacifica representatives at Lake Park Senior Living in Oakland The purpose was “to verify Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Report .. as reported by the media,” according to a summary filed by the state agency The Community Care Licensing Division administrator who conducted the meeting requested a spreadsheet of all facilities previously managed by Pacifica Senior Living Management and a list of the new management companies at those locations The Press Democrat has requested those documents from the Department of Social Services but had not received them before publication of this story A Press Democrat story published on April 2 incorrectly reported that Pacifica Senior Living may have broken a California Health and Safety Code requirement by failing to notify the state Department of Social Services and residents about a bankruptcy case in a timely manner because the specific corporate entity that filed the bankruptcy proceeding In documents filed in bankruptcy court after the April 2 story was published a Pacifica lawyer testified that “resident care in the senior living home facilities will not be disrupted” by the Chapter 7 filing “did not provide any patient or medical care to any senior home residents … did not house or provide care for any senior home residents … [and] did not own any of the senior living home facilities it managed.” The April 2 story has been corrected at pressdemocrat.com and this latest story reflects the updated information in the bankruptcy case Carl Knepler was among the attendees at the meeting He told regulators that “despite the lawsuits there is no financial impact to any of the properties residents or staff of the company,” or to vendors Knepler also insisted the judgment in the Bakersfield case did not involve the “operating entity,” only the management company He told interviewers that no other lawsuits are pending against Pacifica entities (Barlow) emphasized to Knepler the importance of communicating with (Community Care Licensing) any lawsuits that the company may have in the future,” according to the state summary Some of Pacifica Senior Living’s most vocal critics worry the corporation is attempting to skirt its financial obligations through the Chapter 7 bankruptcy and formation of new corporate entities an attorney who recently won a multimillion-dollar jury award on behalf of the family of Robert Mosley who died at the age of 81 after an incident at Pacifica Bakersfield in Kern County scheme to avoid paying the $30 million judgment for them causing the death of Mr “By them filing the bankruptcy and now having all these new entities — it’s all the same.” did not respond to a request for comment on these allegations has recently enlisted bankruptcy counsel to fight for the $30 million judgment owed by Pacifica Companies and Pacifica Senior Living Management which includes accrued interest and attorneys’ fees They are now “pursuing action” against Heritage Resource Group You can reach Phil Barber at 707-521-5263 or phil.barber@pressdemocrat.com From scenic hiking trails to delicious dishes at every corner we’ve curated a guide to the best spots for an unforgettable day in Healdsburg Amina Syammach and the Quail & Condor bakery team create a mosaic of pastries for the early morning rush Monday Baker Amari Quiron adds Lox Toast while pasty chef Sara Ellsworth tidies up the display of goods at Quail & Condor bakery Monday Brisa Cruz takes a customers order at Quail & Condor bakery Monday The selection of pastries from Quail & Condor bakery Monday Maria de los Angeles' art piece “Mi Healdsburg-My Healdsburg” spans four stories on Harmon Guest House in Healdsburg on Monday Artist Alice Sutro’s “Mistress of Memory” is featured in the restaurant atop Harmon Guest House in Healdsburg on Monday The top of Maria de los Angeles' four-story art piece “Mi Healdsburg-My Healdsburg” on Harmon Guest House in Healdsburg on Monday The Rooftop Bar at Harmon Guest House in Healdsburg organizes the shelves at his bookstore in Healdsburg on Tuesday Lemon Ricotta Hotcake with Acorn house lemon curd oat crumble and lemon lavender ice cream from the Acorn Cafe Thursday The Acorn Cafe has opened in the former Oakville Grocery location on the square in Healdsburg Thursday Healdsburg resident and retired biologist Kate Symonds walks along a trail on Fitch Mountain in Healdsburg The 24-acre Aesthete Winery & Farm in Healdsburg is a natural wonderland home to a herd of goats and sheep and a hikeable restored creek as well as a riparian ecosystem that welcomes seasonal steelhead and coho salmon make a reservation in the Creekside Lounge with its individual private spaces furnished with Adirondack chairs overlooking the banks of Dry Creek The open-air retreat is perfect for a picnic Outdoor wine tasting and picnic at Aesthete Winery & Farm in Healdsburg Aesthete Winery & Farm in Healdsburg is home to a herd of goats and sheep Phatty Margarita at Lo & Behold in Healdsburg Housemade noodles with kimchi butter at Lo & Behold in Healdsburg creme fraiche and arugula from Tisza Bistro chef/owner Krisztian Karkus Monday crispy capers and watercress from Tisza Bistro chef/owner Krisztian Karkus Monday (Photo by John Burgess/The Press Democrat) Tisza Bistro brings modern culinary ideas with the Central European roots of owners Krisztian Karkus and his wife Alena Rebik Monday in the old Singletree Cafe location in Healdsburg Small-town charm meets big-time flavor in this Sonoma County gem, where vibrant downtown streets, world-class wineries and a thriving food scene await savoring farm-to-table meals or taking in stunning landscapes this town offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure Ah, Kouign-amann, with your layers upon layers of flaky dough and sugary bliss. Don’t worry if you can’t pronounce it — the friendly weirdoughs (their term!) at Quail & Condor bakery (149 Healdsburg Ave.) know the drill Healdsburg’s chic downtown packs a punch and is best navigated on foot. Pop into Harmon Guest House (227 Healdsburg Ave.) to see the latest installation of its rotating artist series, then head to Levin & Company Community Booksellers (306 Center St.) this family-owned bookstore and its upstairs art gallery has offered a snug space for contemplation and escape For a more serene outdoor adventure, set your sights on Aesthete Farm & Winery (5610 Dry Creek Road) guests are encouraged to roam the 24-acre property meet the social herd of rescue sheep and goats and taste wines from rockstar winemaker Jesse Katz the winery has Adirondack chairs by the water that are the place to be Back in town for drinks and dinner, start at Lo & Behold (214 Healdsburg Ave.) for a Happy Trails gin cocktail or the World’s Best Vodka Soda, crafted with local Young & Yonder vodka, and maybe a pre-dinner snack of kimchi noodles, made fresh daily. Then finish at the casual Tisza Bistro (165 Healdsburg Ave.) neighborhood-y spot for crispy potato latkes with smoked salmon dumplings and schnitzel — a dinner date that’s hard to break co-founded by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer A rendering of North Village and the forthcoming Appellation Healdsburg The Appellation hotel brand is a collaboration between Palmer and Sonoma County resident Christopher Hunsberger formerly with the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts The Appellation Healdsburg hotel will have 108 rooms A model room (pictured) has been constructed in downtown Healdsburg it will also be a great spot to catch the sunset The forthcoming rooftop bar at Appellation Healdsburg A rendering of the restaurant and lobby at the forthcoming Appellation Healdsburg the Grange at Appellation Healdsburg will be large enough to host a sit-down dinner for 270 or a cocktail reception for 500 people Day passes are available for locals looking to lounge alongside the new pool at Vintners Resort All rooms at Vintners Resort are getting a refresh This model room provides a peek of what’s to come The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn is now serving breakfast and lunch Dinner service now includes a la carte offerings in addition to the three-course Egg Drop Corn Soup with Black Truffle (pictured) from chef Craig Wilmer at the Farmhouse restaurant on River Road in Forestville Dried Early Girl Tomato inflated with mozzarella espuma over basil oil and topped with caviar and fried curry leaf from chef Craig Wilmer at the Farmhouse restaurant on River Road in Forestville Black Cod left overnight in lemon salt then grilled with blistered shosito sauce ravigote and kinome leaf from chef Craig Wilmer at the Farmhouse restaurant on River Road in Forestville The women's relaxation room at Spa Montage at Montage Healdsburg a hospitality veteran formerly with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts “It’s really coming to life,” said Hunsberger The lobby layout also includes dedicated space for the brand’s Crafted at Appellation classes Forthcoming workshops at locations throughout Sonoma County cover everything from planting terrariums to blending freshly roasted coffee beans “It will be very different than any other hotel reception experience at least that I know exists today,” said Palmer Rooms and suites are spread throughout a dozen or so buildings In addition to a spa with eight treatment rooms and a fitness center with training equipment and class offerings but a local membership option is said to be in the works Many residents at neighboring Enso Village — described as a Zen-inspired senior living community — appear to have already settled in Above approximately 12,000 square feet of retail space the framework for 53 affordable apartments is coming together There will also be 27 middle-income qualified townhomes as part of the North Village project Appellation Healdsburg is still a hard hat construction site but the number of final stretch touches are growing with each day Mature olive trees are being planted and tile is being set It won’t be long before an assorted four dozen fruit trees and 24 raised culinary beds are integrated into the landscape It’s been more than two decades since Palmer opened Dry Creek Kitchen in downtown Healdsburg. Every Thursday night, locals are invited to take advantage of the restaurant’s three-course Sonoma Neighbor Menu for $55 Palmer said he looks forward to welcoming locals to Appellation Healdsburg as well there’s going to be people coming here hopefully from all over the place it’s about welcoming locals into another great piece of Healdsburg,” said Palmer I want the restaurant and spa to be full of locals.” Rates at Appellation Healdsburg are expected to start at just above $500 a night, plus a daily resort fee of $45. 165 Foss Creek Circle, Healdsburg, appellationhotels.com several Sonoma County hotels are giving people more reasons to plan a trip or Wine Country staycation Vintners Resort just debuted a new resort pool flanked with daybeds, cabanas and fire pits. Day passes are available for locals looking to lounge poolside, but not stay at the property. The next phase of renovations at the Santa Rosa property includes refreshed rooms and a lobby facelift. 4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, 707-575-7350, vintnersresort.com The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn is now serving breakfast and lunch. Dinner service now includes a la carte offerings in addition to the three-course, prix fixe Taste of Farmhouse menu. 7871 River Road, Forestville, 707-887-3300, farmhouseinn.com/restaurant The founders of popular TOWN dinner series are taking their dining theatrics to new heights in Healdsburg — no tickets needed and TOWN co-founders Alexander Harris (who goes by A3l3xzand3r) of The Harris Gallery Art & Wine Collection (pictured left to right) at the “Banquet of the Gods” TOWN dinner at Montage Healdsburg on Feb Photos with Pegasus at the “Banquet of the Gods” TOWN dinner at Montage Healdsburg on Feb Wine from Flambeaux and The Harris Gallery Art & Wine Collection Table setting at the “Banquet of the Gods” TOWN dinner at Montage Healdsburg on Feb All TOWN attendees receive a goody bag to take home A fire dancer at the “Seven Deadly Sins” TOWN dinner at Montage Healdsburg on March 28 Live clay sculpting at last season’s TOWN “Little Italy” themed dinner at Diavola in Geyserville TOWN “Dinner of Dreams” at Hotel Healdsburg’s Dry Creek Kitchen TOWN “Dinner of Dreams” at Hotel Healdsburg’s Dry Creek Kitchen on Jan "Thai-ing a Bow on the Holidays" TOWN dinner at Khom Loi in Sebastopol on Dec Got plans Friday night? The people behind the TOWN dinner series — short for Traveling Off-Season For Wine Night — are taking their dinner theatrics to new heights and the community is invited “Always be on the lookout when we’re planning an event,” said Harris “We like the show to go above and beyond.” The TOWN dinner series kicked off its 2025 season at Montage Healdsburg’s Hazel Hill in early February, and as promised, the “Banquet of the Gods”-themed affair was the antithesis to a stuffy wine dinner. Murray, Harris and guest winemaker Jesse Katz, owner of Aperture Cellars “I probably have done more wine dinners here [Montage Healdsburg] than anyone in this room I can imagine and I am going to move to togas from here on out This is a comfortable outfit and I am loving this,” Katz joked before going on to describe Aperture’s Sauvignon Blanc the mythical winged horse featured in countless Greek legends a white horse from Sonoma County wearing a pair of wispy wings the goal was to attract out-of-town visitors during the off-season but the unconventional dinner series has earned a dedicated local following and the duo said this Friday’s secret show will allow more of the community in on the spectacle Details on the event are very hush-hush, but we’re told it will take place as TOWN’s “Revolutions” dinner at Hotel Healdsburg’s Dry Creek Kitchen winds down and guests head outside to prepare to depart The theme “Revolutions” is said to pay tribute to both the French Revolution and the Bohemian Revolution an arguably wild idea took hold to have an elephant on the guest list It’s an important symbol with historical ties The site of the Bastille and the Moulin Rouge both featured elephant shaped structures in the 1800s Though you may not remember mentions from school Hollywood embraced the history and symbolism in the movies “Moulin Rouge!” and “Les Misérables.” the elephant in the room idea was nixed for not only a more elevated experience but a choreographed opportunity to invite the community in on some fun “Let’s just say it is something that has never happened in downtown Healdsburg,” said Murray Visit the TOWN website and @towndinners on Instagram for the latest updates The popular Carmel-by-the-Sea doughnut darling will open in Healdsburg's former Burdock Bar in late spring Frying doughnuts from Carmel-based Dutch Door Donuts The cooked-to-order doughnuts will be coming to Healdsburg in spring 2025 Pistachio cardamom doughnut from Carmel-based Dutch Door Donuts Maple-bacon doughnut from Carmel-based Dutch Door Donuts Frying doughnuts at Carmel-based Dutch Door Donuts Mixed doughnuts from Carmel-based Dutch Door Donuts has gotten a bright orange paint makeover in preparation for the arrival of Dutch Door Donuts a Carmel-based doughnut shop opening a second location in northern Sonoma County These aren’t Dunkin’ style but made-to-order masterpieces of fried dough that come in seasonal flavors like passion fruit and hibiscus salted brown butter and almond sesame cinnamon Co-owner and chef Tucker Bunch founded a chain of fresh beignet shops in the Houston area and is a former instructor at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St Bunch has worked with a local team to bring Dutch Door to Healdsburg which he thinks will be a good fit for his artisan doughnuts “We don’t have racks of doughnuts cooked in the middle of the night before,” Bunch said “We use a long-fermented dough process and roll and hand-shape the doughnuts.” they’re quickly fried and flavored with various glazes Bunch said each will cost between $4.50 and $5 in line with other gourmet doughnut shops like Johnny Doughnuts in Santa Rosa “We get to sell joy every day,” he said Dutch Door Donuts will open in late spring. dutchdoordonuts.com In the meantime, check out some of the best doughnut shops in the county here HEALDSBURG – Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire (D-North Coast) has been advocating for over a year to secure major funding to move the SMART Train north into Healdsburg that work paid off with a massive $81 million investment by the State of California that will expand the passenger rail service to Healdsburg The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) train’s expansion will also include bicycle and pedestrian path extensions alongside the tracks for the Great Redwood Trail which will eventually span 320 miles from Marin to the Humboldt Bay This is such a huge victory for the residents of northern Sonoma County and builds off the State’s $40 million investment that is now being utilized to connect the Sonoma County Airport with the Town of Windsor,” Pro Tem McGuire said the Metropolitan Transportation Commission the Sonoma County Transportation Authority who are always putting in the hard work to keep the trains running on time We can’t wait to get the shovels in the ground and move SMART full steam ahead into Healdsburg!” the Windsor to Healdsburg line will reconstruct a 5.5-mile segment from Windsor to the Healdsburg Depot and continue north another 3.3-miles to the northern city limits of Healdsburg This week’s funding announcement comes after a decade of tireless effort to secure funding to expand SMART including McGuire’s 2022 legislation that designated SMART’s track as a state supported intermodal passenger service corridor This latest SMART expansion will benefit not only Healdsburg commuters and residents but also cyclists and pedestrians by completing major segments of the Great Redwood Trail Mike McGuire is President pro Tempore of the California Senate. He represents the North Coast of California, which stretches from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Oregon border, including Del Norte, Trinity, Humboldt, Lake, Mendocino, Sonoma, and Marin Counties. Website of Senate Leader McGuire: https://sd02.senate.ca.gov/ California State Senate | Democratic Caucus © document.write(new Date().getFullYear())  | Privacy Policy | Accessibility Statement Solicitation Title: Request for Qualifications for the Healdsburg Extension Project Project Owner: Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) Project Description: Design and Construction of Civil and Architectural Improvements for the Healdsburg Extension Project The Healdsburg Extension Project is the extension of the SMART railroad and pathway system with the objectives of extending passenger rail service 9 miles to the North constructing a station in the City of Healdsburg and extending the non-motorized pathway from the Town of Windsor to the City of Healdsburg where it will tie into the existing Foss Creek pathway within the railroad right-of-way but is not limited to replacement of the existing track with new track and sub ballast; construction of a new center boarding platform to include SMART standard amenities etc.; several bridge replacements or refurbishments including a significant bridge crossing the Russian River; all new and existing grade crossings to be reconstructed construction of a non-motorized bicycle and pedestrian pathway from Windsor to Front Street in Healdsburg extension of SMART’s existing Enhanced Automatic Train Control (EATC) train control system extension of SMART’s communication system to support a closed SMART network communication system Optional tasks are also included in this solicitation to further extend SMART’s rail and pathway system North towards Geyserville Similar work elements to that of the Healdsburg Extension Project are included in these work tasks Project Delivery Method: Progressive Design-Build Alternative Delivery Method Engineer’s Estimate: $263,000,000.00 Funding Source: Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Funds Contractor’s License Required: Type A – General Engineering Contractor Department of Industrial Relations (DIR): Active Registration Required Register & Download Bid Documents at: https://sonomamarintrain.bonfirehub.com The inn was purchased 5 years ago by Vertice Hospitality and was once the home to the Simi Winery family A Healdsburg mansion built in 1895 that was transformed into a luxury bed and breakfast will close its doors at the start of the new year The River Belle Inn is expected to see its last guests on Jan. 3, 2025, as the management company behind SingleThread restaurant, Vertice Hospitality, shuts the inn 30 advising that it was taking the “opportunity to welcome you back to the River Belle Inn for one last stay in our quaint rooms and vintage spaces before we close our doors,” and was signed “Brianna Davis & The Whole River Belle Team.” Davis is the inn’s general manager The Italianate-style building at 68 Front St. once known as the “grand old painted lady,” has rooms bearing names of the surrounding community Helena Suite and the Dry Creek Valley Room Rooms in December were listed from approximately $245 to $400 a night The Press Democrat reached out to the inn’s public relations team about the closure "It’s a bit too early for us to appropriately comment on the site at this time.“ A search through online travel site Expedia showed details for the River Belle Under the heading “Renovations and closures” it stated: “This property is closed from Jan 2025 (dates subject to change).” That revised an earlier statement that said for renovations and will resume operation once the renovation is complete (completion date subject to change).” Isabelle Simi Haigh grew up in the mansion and lived there until she died in 1981 at the age of 95 She inherited the property from her father In April 2017, it opened as the River Belle Inn after architect Thomas Bangs and his wife Mitzi renovated the building before selling it to Vertice five years later for $7.25 million You can reach Staff Writer Melanie Nguyen at 707-521-5457 or melanie.nguyen@pressdemocrat.com The revised map appears poised to be approved by the City Council next month as the city wraps up its six-month process of moving from at-large to district-based elections In the last lap of its journey toward shifting to district-based elections, the Healdsburg City Council tossed out a map it tentatively approved last month in favor of a revised map that divides the southern portion of the city in half and eliminates the concept of a downtown district with four outlying districts dramatically different map breaks up the city’s population nearly equally with between 2,220 and 2,340 residents in each of the five districts It also creates higher percentages of Latino residents in all but one district compared to the map the council green-lit in mid-March Those Latino numbers are important because they are the main reason the city is shifting to district-based elections to begin with Currently, all voters in Healdsburg elect all council members. In the Nov. 5 election, for example, five people ran, with the top three, all incumbents, winning seats to the five-member “at-large” council The shift from the at-large system to a district-based system is being prompted by concerns the at-large system is “racially polarized” and has resulted in minority-vote dilution one council member represents a smaller portion of the city Under California law, the City Council has been tasked with dividing the city into those distinct districts, grouped together by communities of interest such as populations that share common social The process has been difficult. City council members have resented being forced into the change by the threat of litigation and some constituents have felt discouraged by the process feeling that their voices weren’t considered Healdsburg Mayor Evelyn Mitchell said the map the council favored last month cleaved a community of interest in the southern part of the city Mitchell disapproved of separating the north and south side of Matheson Street — a registered historic area — into two districts “It is a huge disconnect,” Mitchell told her colleagues “I think it would not be proper representation for the community which She put her stance bluntly: “I will not vote for it.” Vice Mayor Chris Herrod and Council member Ron Edwards also voiced apprehension over the map approved in March Herrod said the previous map had “trouble features” and said the “east-west orientation” of the new map “creates more cohesion” than the map the council OK’d last month hold together certain qualities within neighborhoods better than the other one does,” Herrod said concerned that future council candidates could be swayed by business dollars didn’t like how three districts touched into the downtown corridor in the previous map district 1 runs along the western side of the city bound by Redwood Highway to Chiquita Avenue to the train tracks to Dry Creek Road/Healdsburg Avenue/North Street/Center Street/Plaza Street/East Street/Tucker Street/University Street/Mason Street/Front Street/Kennedy Lane District 2 abuts the southeast portion of district 1 continuing along South Fitch Mountain Road and finishing along the western and southern edges of the city district 1 on the west and Powell Avenue on the north district 1 on the west and part of district 5 on the north The boundaries between District 5 and district 4 are Sunnyvale Drive/University Avenue/Terrace Boulevard/Lupine Road/Fuschia Street/Lily Street/March Avenue/Healdsburg Avenue/Powell Avenue District 5 shares its southern border with district 4 its western border with district 1 along the railroad tracks and Chiquita Avenue and its northern borders are along the city boundaries Healdsburg on Monday shifted its plan for district elections Here’s how the demographics of the latest map compare to the previous map Latino percentages are in bold to show how the maps address concerns that the city’s current at-large election system dilutes the Latino vote the council must still determine the schedule for its district-based elections as in which two districts will hold elections in 2026 and which three districts will hold elections in 2028 The City Council will meet on April 21 to approve the new map and decide its election schedule Amie Windsor is the Community Journalism Team Lead with The Press Democrat She can be reached at amie.windsor@pressdemocrat.com or 707-521-5218 2025 at 7:29 am PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}These family-friendly summer activities in Healdsburg are sure to be crowd-pleasers for everyone Healdsburg — summer is just around the corner If you're in search of family-friendly fun we've put together a list of seven fantastic activities in and around town that are sure to be a hit with everyone Don't forget to check with the venue ahead of time to confirm hours ticket availability or any special requirements before you go 📅 When: Open daily | 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.📍 Where: 4100 Petrified Forest Rd., Calistoga, CA🔗 More info: Click here 📅 When: Open daily | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.📍 Where: 33 Healdsburg Ave. Suite P, Healdsburg, CA🔗 More info: Click here 📅 When: Open daily | 7:00 a.m. to 30 minutes before sunset📍 Where: 13839 Old Redwood Hwy., Healdsburg, CA🔗 More info: Click here 📅 When: Open daily | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.📍 Where: 1520 Prentice Dr, Healdsburg, CA🔗 More info: Click here 📅 When: Open daily | 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.📍 Where: 1100 Grove St., Healdsburg, CA🔗 More info: Click here 📅 When: Open daily | Monday – Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Friday – Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m., Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m📍 Where: 8801 Conde Ln., Windsor, CA🔗 More info: Click here 📅 When: Open daily | Monday, 5:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday, 5:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Saturday – Sunday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.📍 Where: 360 Monte Vista Ave., Healdsburg, CA🔗 More info: Click here This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. why scallops are a permanent fixture on the menu and the special role his dad plays in the dining room co-owner and chef at Valette and The Matheson in Healdsburg Valette restaurant turns 10 in Healdsburg in March Valette in Healdsburg was the only North Bay restaurant to make OpenTable's 2015 list of 100 Best Restaurants for Foodies in America Hawaiian ahi crudo 'Nicoise Style' from Dustin Valette Peppercorn crusted New York steak with wild mushroom fondue and roasted bone marrow served with potato and pepper hash by chef Dustin Valette at Valette restaurant in Healdsburg Coriander Crusted Duck Breast on cured duck leg and almond cake with cherry jus by chef Dustin Valette at Valette Healdsburg Scallops en croute is a puffed pastry topped with squid ink hiding a giant scallop in creamy Champagne beurre blanc at Valette restaurant in Healdsburg Cal Fire pilot Bob Valette went to work fighting the fire from the air Liberty Farms duck trio from Dustin Valette Slow-cooked celeriac soup from chef Dustin Valette of Valette restaurant in Healdsburg soy-seaweed emulsion and dried sesame seed powder by chef Dustin Valette at Valette Healdsburg Frangipane cake with poached quince by chef Dustin Valette at Valette restaurant in Healdsburg Valette works with star winemakers David Ramey Bob Cabral and Jesse Katz to produce limited-edition Valette wines When chef Dustin Valette opened his namesake restaurant just off the Healdsburg Plaza in 2015 the luxe food scene of the northern Sonoma County town was still in its infancy Michelin had all but forsaken Healdsburg after the 2012 closure of Cyrus SingleThread hadn’t officially opened including Brass Rabbit and Goodnight’s Steakhouse owned by Jeff and Susan Mall and one of the early adopters of farm-to-table cuisine leaving a gaping hole in the fledgling foodie town Valette saw an opening — literal and figurative — in the former Zin space and an opportunity to carry on the Malls’ ingredient-driven ethos It didn’t hurt that his grandfather owned a bakery at the location 75 years ago the Healdsburg native left his position as chef de cuisine of Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen and dove headlong into restaurant ownership with his brother Aaron Garzini The dream was to create a casual yet elegant space where diners could sit at the bar with a glass of wine and an appetizer or take an hourslong journey into the “trust me” tasting menu Valette marks its 10th anniversary as a Wine Country dining staple that has weathered fires the restaurant will host a series of wine dinners March 10-16 I sat down with chef Valette (who also owns The Matheson and Roof 106 in Healdsburg) to discuss his decade in Healdsburg’s food scene Valette was born from two brothers’ lifelong dream of creating a unique dining experience in our hometown Healdsburg Our goal is to provide a canvas for local farmers winemakers and artisans to showcase their crafts You’re gonna get gray hair and it’s going to be the most stressful and most fulfilling thing in your life besides your children It’s a dish I created at Dry Creek Kitchen Everyone would come from all around for it The scallop is steamed and it really shows its beautiful simplicity salty and acidic flavors — it’s fricking terrific they’re such staples of the restaurant We had weathered the COVID storm and kept all our employees took out a loan and mortgaged everything we had 1 for things to level out or we would have to close We reopened for regular dining service on Jan The highest point was when we got a Wine Enthusiast Top 100 nod the year we opened It showed me very quickly that this crazy idea of two brothers bucking all the trends would work Chef Thomas Keller from The French Laundry I would love to tell the story of an entire year through a glass of wine I love making garage wine and started a commercial wine brand (Valette works with star winemakers David Ramey Bob Cabral and Jesse Katz to produce limited-edition Valette wines.) I would love to celebrate 20 years in this location Sonoma County and its artisans and makers who love their jobs I want to continue that passion and sense of place People come from all over to visit and get a sense of our lives here be part of our community and live the dream we have every day we wake up But how it’s changed for the worse is the same reason We have to share our heaven with everyone else the best part is to share it with everyone One of my favorite parts of the restaurant is that my dad spends nights talking to guests My dad was focused on protecting our community as a firefighter but never got to reap the rewards I watch my dad with a glass of wine at the restaurant and it’s nice to see him sit back and enjoy people we have created a place to come and relax and forget about the worries of life — the crazy world outside our doors You can sit here and have a bourbon at the bar; it feels like coming home I want to create a place that gives people warmth in their souls What we do puts such a big smile on my face Valette is at 344 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-473-0946, valettehealdsburg.com Maria Carrillo and Sonoma Academy were also among the day’s winners The Greyhounds swept the Vikings and won their fifth game in a row Friday Ace Eric Nielsen fired a complete game with eight strikeouts three walks and four hits to improve to 5-0 on the year and lower his earned run average to 0.48 Hayden Mariani had three hits and scored twice Nova Perrill had an RBI single and Vinny Loupy had a pair of RBIs for Healdsburg (11-4 The Tigers continued their unbeaten streak in NBL-Redwood action 7-0) now holds a two-game lead atop the league standings and has a scoring differential of 103-25 in league play Hunter Thomas drove in three runs with a double Donnie Rinkor hit a solo home run and Kaleb Jacobs and Logan Radovich each drove in a pair of runs striking out three with six hits and two earned runs allowed in five innings Analy has also now won six in a row and will close out the week with a nonleague matchup at Novato on Saturday Cardinals ace Josh Jannicelli fired a complete-game shutout to help his squad bounce back from their first league loss against the Wildcats on Friday struck out nine with two hits and one walk on just 79 pitches Jacob Wood doubled in the second to bring in the game’s only run Takoda Newman pitched well in defeat for Ukiah (8-7 5-1) will be playing in the prestigious Boras Classic North next week The Pumas got a great start from pitcher Norman Shinn to win the second of three games against the Jaguars on Friday Shinn went the distance with seven strikeouts a walk and five hits scattered to earn the win Andrew Godfrey had a hit and scored a run and Noah Harris and Lucas Diehm scored runs Brandon Curry had three hits and scored twice and Micah Sanders had an RBI hit to lead Windsor (8-6 Sanders also fired six innings with seven strikeouts three hits and three unearned runs in defeat The Pumas and Jaguars will finish out their three-game series at Santa Rosa Junior College on Saturday The Coyotes took care of the Wildcats on Friday to stay unbeaten in NCL II action Salvador Diaz and Victor Jennings combined for a one-hit shutout and Diaz worked the first 4⅓ innings with eight strikeouts and two walks to earn the win while Noah Proctors tripled with an RBI and Madden Pelkey had two hits with an RBI The Gryphons scored six runs in the sixth inning for a run-rule victory over the Titans in NCL II action Friday Henry Humphreys went 4-for-4 on the day with a double three RBIs and three runs scored to pace Credo (6-5-1 You can reach Staff Writer Gus Morris at 707-304-9372 or gus.morris@pressdemocrat.com Healdsburg was named one of the top 10 best Christmas towns in the country Here are some festive activities and places to enjoy the holiday Healdsburg was named one of the "Top 10 Best Christmas Towns" in an Aug 29 Reader’s Choice Awards article from Newsweek The Travel named Healdsburg the coziest California town in the winter in an Oct Here are some ways to join in on the town’s festivities The annual Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting Celebration will take place on the Healdsburg Plaza on Dec Along with the tree lighting and carriage rides the celebration includes a festive holiday night market featuring over a dozen local food Chris Serio and Tina Serio participate in the Healdsburg Holiday Shuffle in Healdsburg on Saturday Healdsburg's Jordan Winery will host its annual Christmas at Jordan Winery holiday event on Dec Holiday Tea at Dry Creek Kitchen in Hotel Healdsburg People of all ages are welcome to join the restaurant for a festive afternoon of tea finger sandwiches and other holiday fare (Courtesy Hotel Healdsburg) Dry Creek Kitchen’s redesigned bar in Healdsburg on Sept soft lighting from overhead pendants and large mirrors behind the bar Lambert Bridge Winery on West Dry Creek Road in Healdsburg has a cozy tasting room with a fireplace The winery hosts a number of holiday events including a Wreath Making Class from 4-6 p.m Looking for somewhere cozy to spend the holiday season Sonoma County locals don’t have to go far this Christmas Healdsburg was named one of the “Top 10 Best Christmas Towns” in an Aug. 29 Reader’s Choice Awards article from Newsweek. Additionally, digital travel publication The Travel named Healdsburg the coziest California town in the winter in an Oct. 21 article Out of Newsweek’s 10 best towns to celebrate Christmas in the United States Healdsburg’s tree lighting ceremonies Nominees are chosen by editors with contributions from a panel of travel agents Newsweek editors then determine the final list California clinched the top two spots on the list Healdsburg topped other well-known holiday locales One winter activity of note is the Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting Celebration 6 at the Healdsburg Plaza on Matheson Street and Healdsburg Avenue Santa Claus will be around to take photos with families and live musical performances and complimentary carriage rides will liven the festivities There will also be a holiday market with local vendors surrounding the streets of the plaza Dry Creek Kitchen at Hotel Healdsburg will be decorated in holiday decor for their Holiday Tea event finger sandwiches and other holiday fare from 1-2:30 p.m Jordan Winery will also host its annual Christmas at Jordan party from 1-4 p.m the Jordan Chateau will transform its winery into New York City’s Rockefeller Center Executive chef Jesse Mallgren will prepare winter meals paired with different wines Guests are encouraged to bring a wrapped toy to include in the Toys for Tots toy drive Tickets are $175 per person. 1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, 707-431-5250, jordanwinery.com travel journalist Jessica Tucker called Healdsburg one of those “laid-back California towns perfect for a relaxing getaway in the cozy wintertime,” despite its Michelin-star restaurants and high-end shopping The town boasts a variety of winter-friendly activities it’s not too frigid for outdoorsy fun A number of Healdsburg’s best restaurants are also great cozy refuges when the weather gets a bit too blustery Some of our favorites are Parish Cafe for a Southern comfort breakfast Guiso Latin Fusion for Salvadoran pupusas and The Taste of Tea for a steaming bowl of ramen The winery plans to move operations to its rural Geyserville headquarters and focus on wine club members San Francisco visitors taste wine at the Thumbprint Cellars tasting room in downtown Healdsburg Thumbprint Cellars held its last wine tasting over the weekend at its Healdsburg Plaza tasting room, as first reported by The Healdsburg Tribune It is the latest in a string of recent tasting room closures in Wine Country — last week, two Napa Valley wineries shuttered their tasting rooms Helena and two of Silver Oak Cellars’ Twomey tasting rooms this is not the end for Thumbprint Cellars whose Plaza-facing tasting room enjoyed over 15 years of foot traffic on downtown Healdsburg’s Matheson Street The north county winery will move all operations to its rural headquarters in Geyserville Thumbprint will also shift its business model to focus more on experiences for wine club members Thumbprint founder Scott Lindstrom-Dake stated the team has “begun the move from our downtown Healdsburg tasting room we have lovingly referred to as ‘The Lounge’ over the past 20 years The location is now closed for tasting and sales.” Lindstrom-Dake stated they are in the process of consolidating the business and “creating a new venue for tasting and sales at our Geyserville location,” the details of which will be announced soon The winery’s first event at its Geyserville location according to the Healdsburg Tribune article Thumbprint also plans to hold more public events and wine tastings by early summer founders Scott and Erica Lindstrom-Dake have been busy building the reputation of their boutique winery They opened their first tasting room in 2004 in downtown Healdsburg which they later relocated in 2009 to its popular Matheson Street home Thumbprint’s 2017 Alexander Valley Premium Bordeaux Blend scored a near-perfect 99 points have opted to offer member-exclusive tasting experiences and pickup parties Thumbprint Cellars appears optimistic for the change of focus “We are excited for the next Thumbprint Cellars adventure!” Scott Lindstrom-Dake stated The woman was arrested after police said they found suspected methamphetamine in her vehicle outside her residence A Healdsburg woman was arrested last week on suspicion of child neglect after police said they found suspected drugs in her vehicle Officers and a member of the Healdsburg police Community Oriented and Equity team ― which handles homeless parking and neighbor dispute calls ― responded Wednesday to a call about a child who was not regularly being picked up by a parent when they are dropped off at home after school The officers searched the area around the home and found several ounces of suspected methamphetamines marijuana and a scale in the child’s mother’s vehicle outside the residence was detained and as she was being booked into the Sonoma County jail officials found more items hidden in her bra Those items included 3 baggies containing a total of 2 ounces of suspected methamphetamine Gonzalez Rivas is suspected of possession and transportation of narcotics for sale smuggling controlled substances into a jail facility and child neglect she is no longer in jail and it does not appear that charges have been filed against her in Sonoma County Superior Court in Santa Rosa Police did not immediately respond Sunday to a request for comment A vivid color palette — and a secret passageway — are only some of the surprises revealed in a Healdsburg couple's 1884 Victorian home Corey Rawdon and Noah Jeppson in their Victorian home in Healdsburg Though each room of the home has a different color palette from the downstairs bath to the upstairs hallway (pictured) with whimsical artwork by Danish designer Bjørn Wiinblad The transformed kitchen with a customizable A vintage telephone doubles as a plant stand The hidden passage from the parlor to the dining room which Noah uncovered while tapping around on the walls one day The blue-hued dining room at the home of Noah Jeppson and Corey Rawdon Corey Rawdon and Noah Jeppson with their dog in the dining room of their Victorian home in Healdsburg vintage furniture and artwork from the Haitian painter Fritz Merise from the downstairs bath to the upstairs hallway from the downstairs bath (pictured) to the upstairs hallway Noah Jeppson in the office of the Victorian home he shares with his husband Noah preserved all of the finds from the renovation including a school slate and a scrap of wallpaper which inspired some of the home’s paint colors When Noah Jeppson showed his husband Corey Rawdon a listing for a historic Gothic-style Victorian in downtown Healdsburg near the plaza wanted to move closer to San Francisco for work — and to put down some small-town roots in the hope of starting a family together “I knew Noah was going to fall in love with it though,” says Corey It was a project we could put our own imagination into had renovated several homes together in the past and knew the draw of bringing an older home into the present you realize you’re the caretaker of the house and you want to do what you can to preserve it to understand the stories and put together the story of the house,” says Noah The home had been built in 1884 by one of Healdsburg’s earliest residents a German immigrant who owned a bar and later served the town as fire chief and mayor the home had been used as a boarding house and apartments Though it was in good structural condition much of the Victorian character had been lost over time “Every family that had lived in this house had done something different and made it their own so we weren’t afraid to do that as well… We wanted to bring back the warmth and the color and the joy,” says Noah The couple kept the floor plan intact with separate formal rooms for dining and socializing but wanted to layer in color and functionality a full-size bath downstairs and a new wall of cabinets in the kitchen “We drew inspiration from the house itself and what would’ve occurred during the time it was built — having a drawing room But then we wanted to create space for the future first and foremost for family,” says Corey the couple uncovered traces of the past that helped them understand its history Noah found a school slate used by an early resident who became the town’s first high school graduate he found the written signatures of the builders scrawled on walls “Noah cannot resist the opportunity to explore,” says Corey and he was showing me a section of the wall in the dining room I’m going to get a sledgehammer.’ So he goes and gets the sledgehammer and knocks a hole in the wall and it just keeps going back into a void.” “Of course that was just like another invitation to keep exploring some more,” laughs Noah the couple enlarged the hole and turned it into a passageway connecting the formal front parlor to the dining room Painting and decorating the space was an opportunity to layer in more historical perspective a look that he and Noah call “Victorian Pop.” Each room is meant to pop on its own but some colors become touchpoints that echo throughout the home for continuity The warm rose-tan in the living room is repeated on the ceiling of the upstairs hall and the slate-brown window trim reappears in a bedroom “‘Fortune favors the bold’ is a saying I’ve always lived my life by,” says Corey and architectural details on Craigslist and at local antique stores They each had a veto authority over the other’s choices ‘I kind of like it but I wish it were something different,’” explains Corey “It was either ‘that’s a no’ — or you had to let the other person run with it we were able to work together almost without trying to all of the couple’s energy and time has been poured into the house and its many needs we’re giving each other an antique mantel and tile for the kitchen,” says Noah contributed some family heirlooms — his grandmother’s bell which sits on the table in the formal parlor a sprig of cotton he picked in Tennessee on the mantle and a wagon-wheel light in the small outbuilding that the couple use as a shared office Neighbors and friends often remark that the home the couple has created together feels a bit like a museum “The look is highly curated and feels special Corey and Noah are now turning their attention to deepening their roots in the community. They’ve built a little free library on the corner of their lot and are currently finishing a renovation of their front garden, creating a space where they can chat with neighbors and their dog, Bash, can play. They both volunteer with the Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society and Corey now serves on the board of the group they were the host family for a college baseball player who was spending the summer in Sonoma County as a member of the Healdsburg Prune Packers baseball team They say they are looking forward to becoming even more a part of the fabric of the town and their neighborhood in their next chapter of life “Raising kids takes a village,” says Corey “Part of moving here was to find and build our own community to have that village so that when we have kids They’ve named their home the Heartwood House a name they picked in honor of the prime local redwood used in its construction back in the 1880s the couple say that the name Heartwood House has come to embody a spirit of warmth and community “We do just have a lot of heart put into our home,” says Corey “We’ve found new meaning in this old house.”