The Healdsburg Tribune
‘GOAL-SETTING’ MEETING ON FRIDAY, REGULAR SESSION ON MONDAY EVE
By Christian Kallen
Healdsburg Tribune
The Healdsburg City Council will have a lengthy goal-setting meeting on Friday this week, an annual discussion that assists the body and its members in prioritizing their efforts for the coming year. The following Monday, April 21, the council will hold its second regular meeting of the month, one which is likely to have its own challenges in light of the April 7 meeting and its revision of the 5-district map for City Council seats.
Goal Setting
An agenda has been released for Friday’s meeting, but as the goal-setting session is a “special meeting” of the City Council, some of the rules will be different. There will be two general public comment sessions, toward the beginning of the meeting and toward the close. No legislation or other binding decisions will be made. A luncheon break is planned. The meeting will not be broadcast or streamed, but it is open to the public at the Tayman Park Golf Course Club House, 927 S. Fitch Mountain Rd. The meeting begins at 9am, and is expected to last until 3:30pm.
Regular Session
The overriding question about the Monday meeting will be how the transition to district elections plays out. Again, this is a map that divides Healdsburg into five districts, each to elect its own council member, with a mayor’s
➝ City Council, 3
ASSEMBLED KIN AND STRANGERS SHARE A COMMON BOND
Staff Report
Two hundred and fifty of Jennifer Utsch’s closest friends came together on Sunday to share in their memories. It was a diverse group, but it was all one group, and looking into the eyes of one another was like looking into Jen’s eyes.
Jen passed away in hospice care in Tucson a few weeks ago, leaving a hole in the heart of Healdsburg the size of Villa Chanticleer. The town was restored to life by Jendala Day on April 13.
A gathering in the garden courtyard started about 1pm, its gazebo festooned
with photographs, flowers and tributes, its walkway lined by the ubiquitous chimes. The setting gave many of those who Jen had touched a chance to speak.
Gina Riner read a poem by Mary Oliver, the one that ends, “Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn’t everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
Brigette Mansell, friend and teacher and former mayor, said, “I love you Jen, and you are never past tense for me.”
A much younger friend, Josie Ramirez, said through her tears, “She showed me love. She didn’t need to be so loving toward me because we’re not blood, but she’s the closest grandma I ever had.”
Tess Aston, who honored
Jendala’s wishes by taking over her beloved Heartizens creative space, said, “She truly believed the power of art could heal all wounds.”
Friends Jenny Salomonsky, Rob Davis and Xerxes Whitney also spoke, all affected and inspired by “Jendala.”
Laura Utsch was there, looking so like her older sister that seeing her almost brought Jen into the space. She read from the Farewell Message that Jen left just days before she passed away, on Feb. 18, 2025.
“We are literally citizens of the heart. We truly are people born and living so that we can express from the heart and create,” she read in part. “We are meant to connect from our hearts to grow and amplify the support that is all around us …
FEDERAL FUNDING CUT FOR MUSEUM, LIBRARY STUDIES
EXECUTIVE ORDER TARGETS LIBRARIES IN 50 STATES
By Erika Thibault
The library and museum world is reeling from a new executive order issued on March 14, 2025, targeting the Institute for Museum and Library Services, which provides federal funding to support libraries in all 50 states. The order eliminates funding for the Institute
“There is so much more I want to say. It is now time for me to live out my biggest dream which is peace.”
The group adjourned to the main hall, where food from Dim Sum and Then Sum was available, along with beverages and various baked treats. The cash bar was open, and Todd Bugbee’s band Dead Roses played for dancers or nostalgic wallflowers.
Musician Tony Glaser took over about 2:30pm for a mid-afternoon singalong of a tune he had written with Jendala—she had supplied the words, he the music. And on Jendala Day, everyone sang her “Heart’s Song.”
“I’m unbreakable, I’m incredible, My body’s strong My mind is powerful, I’m powerful, I’m powerful, I’m powerful …”
for Museum and Library Studies (IMLS), where all staff have been placed on administrative leave, effective immediately. In 2024, California received the most IMLS funding nationwide, including nearly $16 million for libraries through the Grants to States program, an additional $1.8 million in other library grants and nearly $9 million for museums.
Sonoma County Library has benefited from IMLS grants funding specific programs for our community as well as from several statewide programs funded by IMLS, including an eBooks for All grant; Stay & Play grants for children and caregivers; the History & Genealogy Playback Memory Lab grant; SonomaFi hotspot lending, mobile WiFi pop-up units for large groups; and Read Together story kits, for parents to help their young children learn how to read.
Mark Themig, a close friend of Jen’s in recent years, was in a position to coordinate both city and community resources for the ceremony. “I think it was exactly what Jen would have wanted and enjoyed herself,” he said. Like others, he admitted to tears overflowing during the singing of “Heart’s Song.”
“You know, the parts of the lyrics when she talks about being unbreakable— I think at that point it just really hit home that we will all succumb someday to …” he trailed off.
“But in her battle, she was invincible and she was a warrior,” he added, “and she gave it everything that she possibly could.”
See our ‘Jendala Day’ Gallery on page 4
Sonoma County Library currently receives about $20,000 in Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding from the California State Library for the eBooks for All grant. We also rely upon other State Library initiatives including a New York Times subscription and staff development opportunities—all funded through LSTA. Our library will adjust to these cuts; other libraries will not fare as well. We are devastated to hear that the IMLS is being cut, and staff are being put on leave. We encourage everyone who loves libraries to reach out to their federal elected officials and tell them to fight for IMLS before it’s too late.
Erika Thibault is the Sonoma County library director. This message first appeared in the April edition of the county’s Library News.
Photo by Rick Tang
IN THE GARDEN Jen Utsch’s friend and Healdsburg’s community services director, Mark Themig, hosts the April 13 ‘Jendala Day’ at Villa Chanticleer.
HEALDSBURG HAPPENINGS
GOINGS ON AROUND
TOWN THIS WEEK & NEXT
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
‘We Want the Funk’ Take a syncopated voyage through the history of funk music, from African, soul and early jazz roots to its rise into the public consciousness. One-hour film followed by a dance party, free with reservation, doors open at 5:30pm. Presented by KRCB/Northern California Public Radio, at the Raven Theater, 115 North St., raventheater.org.
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
Goal-Setting Session
A day-long meeting of the Healdsburg City Council to
COUNCIL MEETING
DRAWS CRITICISM
DISTRICTING,
PARKLETS GET A SECOND LOOK FROM LETTERS
Dueling Maps Mayor Mitchell hijacked the last council meeting to push through her own mapping agenda. She is worried about a “bulb-out” on the map in her own district. I guess symmetry is more important to the mayor than the actual purpose of district elections, which is representation for the underrepresented. Councilmember Edwards may have had good intentions when he also went with Map D versus A as he believed that
consider goals and priorities for the coming year. It will be held from 9am to 3pm at the Tayman Park Golf Course Club House, 927 S. Fitch Mountain Rd. This event will not be televised.
Kids’ Singalong
Farmer Arann Harris returns to the upstairs venue at Little Saint with singalong songs, dancing, bubbles and giggles. The perfect way to start Friday for kids with tons of energy (and adults who need a coffee). $18 for 1 adult & 1 child, $5 for each additional human. At 10am, 25 North St., littlesainthealdsburg.com.
Wait, Wait …
Don’t tell me: Paula Poundstone wields her sharp comedy chops at the Raven on Friday night, but tickets are rare to unavailable. No wonder; her last visit in 2022 was memorable both for Healdsburg and for Poundstone—she namechecks the
it would be difficult for a minority to be elected in the three districts around downtown because the underrepresented would have a hard time getting financial backing. Maybe he doesn’t believe there are any more Ron Edwards out there, as he has been elected here two times. Finally, and most important, Chris Herrod is the council member who initially presented Map D at a previous meeting. It should be noted that in Map A Chris Herrod and Ron Edwards are in the same district. Ron’s term runs through 2028, and Chris’ expires in 2026. Under Map A, Chris would likely be termed out and unable to run again till the 2028 election. Chris’ only reason to back Map D is self-preservation. No one can remember the last time when someone from the southern district
Hand Fan Museum in her act these days. At 7:30pm, Raven Theater, 115 North St., raventheater.org.
Git-Down
Enjoy a little pre-420 party with the Pitchforks, purveyors of classic country and true honky-tonk on Friday night. 8-11pm, $15 at The Elephant in the Room, 117 Healdsburg Ave., elephantintheroompub.com.
Hair Rock
The cover band Aqua-Nett keeps it together with songs from Guns N’ Roses, Billy Idol, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Journey and others right here in Healdsburg. Doors at 6pm, show starts at 8pm, food from SoCo Paella. Tickets $10-15 at Coyote Sonoma, 44-F Mill Street, coyotesonoma.com.
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
Scrambled Plans
The Rotary Club of
served on the council. Map D would likely assure this slight continues till at least 2032 after the districts have been redrawn, while Map A would guarantee a council member would actually reside in the southern area.
Please contact our council members and ask that they act in the spirit of district elections and vote for Map A. Healdsburg needs equal representation, not the perpetuation of self-interests.
Dan Pizza Healdsburg
Parklets
Discussion I found Monday night’s Parklet discussion entirely unsatisfactory. Public Works had advance notice of the topic, yet failed to produce a slide deck for inclusion in the Council packet?
Adopted in 2022, Healdsburg’s Parklet
Healdsburg invites everyone to join its annual free Easter Egg Scramble on Saturday, April 19, 9am at the Fitch Mountain School (565 Sanns Lane). Designed to be inclusive, accessible and open. Due to the shortage, however, plastic eggs will be used.
Farmers’ Market
The 2025 season for the Healdsburg Certified Farmers’ Market continues at the West Plaza Parking lot, from 8:30am to noon. Shop local and keep small businesses and farms thriving (and avoid tariff surcharges). Details at healdsburgfarmersmarket.org.
Spicy Vines
Springtime schedule of two Saturday shows a month at the Spicy Vines wine bar, from 3-6pm. This retro mini-mall at the walking north end of downtown, 441 Healdsburg Ave., is also home to Alma’s
Program imposes an administrative fee on each parklet (currently $2,400 per year) to cover the City’s “direct costs” of administering the program. City staff estimated the Admin fee and parklet rent (from 20 parklets) would contribute $175,000 to the general fund each year.
The Admin fee made sense when parklets were converted from tables on pavement to ADA accessible platforms with roofs, sunshades, lighting and heaters. However, last year only one parklet was relocated and (so far) this year, only one parklet was removed (to install a grease trap), so how much oversight is necessary?
In one year, the Admin fee from 16 (current) parklets will generate $38,400. If Carmel’s Dutch Door believes there aren’t enough doughnuts in this town, did they
Oilcloth & Chucherias, the home décor store a/muse and the Rena Charles Gallery. spicyvines.com.
Caturday Benefit for the Sonoma County Humane Society, a funny and poignant 75 minutes of cat videos drawn from festival submissions, animations, music videos and internet classics (“meow memes”). True West Cinema presents two screenings on April 19, at 2pm and 6pm in the screening lounge at 371 Healdsburg Ave. Tickets $20 at truewestfilmcenter.org.
HFFC Barn Dance
Get in step for the upcoming Healdsburg Future Farmers Country Fair Barn Dance, 5-10pm at the Alexander Valley Hall. Dinner, no-host bar and music from Train Wreck Junction, to benefit HFFC. $75 each, $800 table for 8, 5512 Hwy 128, Geyserville.
also cover the City’s administrative costs from removal of Duke’s parklet?
Mark Horne Healdsburg
Birds Fly Away
As a user of the bikes since March, 2023, I was able to see the pros and cons associated with them. I am disappointed that they chose to leave, as it impacts my daily life.
Our 2040 Parks & Connectivity Work Group will reach out to Larry Zimmer to see if he will give us the Bird usage data to examine. It would be interesting to see if the city did anything with the information Bird provided them. I know my complaints to Larry insured some bikes be allocated to Barbieri Park, which were definitely used by the neighborhood.
I spoke to the gentleman who had the
SUNDAY, APRIL 20
Easter Brunch in Geyserville Hop into Easter at The Geyserville Grille on Sunday, from 8am to 2pm, for a delicious brunch featuring favorites like the Classic Ham & Spinach Quiche, Wine Benedict and Mango Salad with Chicken, with complimentary coffee and dessert. 21712 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, geyservilleinn.com/ geyserville-grille.
MONDAY, APRIL 21
Held Over The City Council will continue into a sixth public hearing on the Transition to District Elections, hoping to confirm last week’s decision without further drama, during the regular City Council meeting. Other expected topics include a presentation on the Multicultural Wellness Center. Meeting starts at 6pm, 401 Grove St. Or view online at facebook.com/ cityofhealdsburg or healdsburg.gov/zoom.
TUESDAY, APRIL 22
Earth Day Clean-Up
Join the City of Healdsburg for a community clean-up for Earth Day. Meet at the Plaza at 4pm to pick up safety vests, pickers, gloves and bags. After a brief safety meeting, volunteers will be dispatched to Foss Creek and surrounding areas to remove litter and help keep the city beautiful. Return to the Plaza at 5:30pm. Acts of Commissions Tuesday, April 22, is a scheduled meeting of the city’s Planning Commission to evaluate and review in-town building projects, at 6pm. The next afternoon, April 23, the Senior Citizens Advisory Commission is set to meet at 4pm. Both at Council Chambers, 401 Grove St.
For additional events, visit healdsburgtribune.com/ calendar.
contract to maintain the bikes a couple of months ago. He told me how difficult the job was. He had to pay for all the replacement parts upfront, and wait for reimbursement from Bird. That is why so many bikes were in such a state of disrepair. The community groups like Healdsburg 2040, MOVE! Healdsburg and Climate Action Healdsburg will keep prodding the city to implement better micro-mobility solutions and bicycle/ pedestrian infrastructure improvements. We need the public to have a seat at the table when these decisions are made. It is unfortunate we lost our voice when the Transportation Advisory Commission was dissolved in early 2019.
Mark McMullen Healdsburg
Photo by Rick Tang
HIDDEN TREASURES The Rotary Club of Healdsburg invites everyone to join its annual free Easter Egg Scramble on Saturday, April 19, at the Fitch Mountain School, starting at 9am promptly.
FARM + MARKET
Where the Sidewalk Ends, the Market Begins
NEW COLUMN SAVORS THE FARM-FRESH FEELING OF HEALDSBURG
By Liza Gershman
There’s a magic hour on Saturday mornings when the sun hasn’t quite burned through the morning mist and the scent of basil floats on the breeze.
It’s in that moment—coffee in one hand, tote bag in the other—that Healdsburg wakes up. Not with alarm clocks or deadlines, but with laughter, tomatoes still warm from the sun and the soft hum of a town gathering to celebrate the local farms’ abundance.
If you live here, the market feels less like an errand and more like a reunion.
It’s where neighbors greet each other with hugs and handshakes, children dart between booths clutching just-baked cookies and you’re bound to discover something delightfully unexpected—like Cadd’s collection of over 1,000 irisbulb varieties, freshly milled polenta from Front Porch Farm or vibrant chutneys from Roti Brothers’ stall.
While I didn’t grow up in Healdsburg proper, where I now live, my roots are deeply embedded in
DISTRICTING
City Council, 1
seat to be rotated among council members instead of voted upon in a citywide election.
The map agreed upon in the fourth “public hearing” on March 17, Map A, was discarded and replaced by Map D in the April 7 meeting, the fifth and last scheduled public hearing. However the change requires an additional sixth public hearing, which will take place during Monday’s
Sonoma County’s countryside, particularly along the winding outskirts of Bennett Valley Road, which my mother still calls home. From a young age, I was immersed in a community where food arrived sun-warmed and fragrant, neighbors left bags of apples and lemons and plums on doorsteps, and someone you knew always cultivated something wonderful in their garden. Healdsburg was a part of my early story, though. I went to a small school, and most of my classmates lived in Dry Creek and Alexander Valley. Beginning at age 7 and continuing through much of my early 20s, I spent long weekends and school holidays at the Prestons’ property on Dry Creek Road. Lou and Susan Preston were not only family friends but also pioneers in the region’s sustainable agriculture movement. They transformed their land into a diversified organic farm and winery, contributing significantly to the local food culture and helping to establish the idea of “farm-fresh,” in my mind.
That land, and the quiet rhythm of life on Dry Creek Road, profoundly shaped who I became. With their daughters I picked blackberries until our fingers were stained, explored
City Council meeting and is scheduled to start at 6:30pm, half an hour after the meeting begins. Throughout, the city had been attentive to the deadline set by Shenkman & Hughes, the law firm that presented its intention to sue under the California Voting Rights Act. Having committed to the transition on Nov. 16, 2024, the city automatically launched a 60-day period during which it had to take action.
The city applied for and received a 60-day extension, but following the April 7 meeting the city
rows of vines and watched the seasons change not on a calendar but by the color of the leaves.
In sixth grade we went trick-or-treating to the few houses that dotted the stretch of country road, and one neighbor, not expecting young visitors, searched for a treat to give and awkwardly offered us bottles of homemade port (something that would only happen in the ’80s). I remember when Bistro Ralph’s was the place to eat, and when Ravenous had no more than four little tables tucked into the Raven’s front room.
All of this is to say, Healdsburg wove itself into my sense of home before I ever realized I was laying down roots, and shaped my understanding of what “eating local” truly means.
In being honored to work with the Healdsburg Certified Farmers’ Market on my newest book, Farm + Market: Healdsburg, I’ve found myself returning to these youthful memories often.
The market has long been the town’s unofficial storyteller. Each booth holds a narrative: of generational farming, new beginnings, culinary dreams and the shifting dance of seasons. It’s why the market plays such a central role in so many of our lives and in the new
book—not just as a place, but as a character.
I recently spent a morning talking with Shalie Jonker, co-founder of Noble Goat Farm and board chair of the Healdsburg Certified Farmers’ Market, whose boundless energy and passion for our local agriculture is instrumental in the production of this project. Shalie spoke of heirloom varieties, crop rotation and the deeper philosophy of feeding a town not just with food, but with care. It reminded me that the Farmers’ Market is a celebration of our community.
This week, asparagus is peeking through the stalls like green confetti, a sure sign that spring has truly arrived. If you’re lucky, you might spot baby artichokes, citrus you’ve never heard of or a bundle of herbs that smells like the hillsides after rain.
In the coming months, this column will explore the stories behind the booths, the people who make this culture vibrant and the quiet beauty of seasonal living. It will also offer glimpses into the making of the Farm + Market: Healdsburg book— a love letter to this town in words, recipes and images.
Sharing our community food story is just the beginning. Residents can participate in the town-wide recipe
was forced to ask Kevin Shenkman for another 30-day extension, which was granted. The deadline for approval of a district map for Healdsburg is now May 17, 2025, with the first district elections for City Council to be held in the 2026 election cycle. Other agenda items should be published by April 17 on the city website.
The Healdsburg City Council meets in regular session on Monday, April 21, at 6pm at 401 Grove St. Or view online at facebook. com/cityofhealdsburg or healdsburg.gov/zoom.
contest and have a recipe featured in the book alongside the remarkable restaurants and chefs who are contributing recipes and stories (Single Thread, Valette, Cyrus, Charlie Palmer, Duskie Estes, Little Saint, Quail & Condor, Scott Beattie and more). Residents can sign up and have their portrait taken and featured in the book as well (see below for details).
For now, meet me where the sidewalk ends. Just past the dahlias and the sourdough, where the sound of
an acoustic guitar blends with chatter and the smell of breakfast burritos curls in the air. That’s where the market begins—and with it, the story of Healdsburg continues.
Liza Gershman’s upcoming book, ‘Farm + Market: Healdsburg,’ celebrates the stories, recipes and local bounty of the community. Proceeds from the book go directly to support the Healdsburg Certified Farmers’ Market. (healdsburgbook.com |@healdsburgbook)
Photos by Liza Gershman
SETTING UP Joe Moreda, one of the owners of Valley Ford Cheese and Creamery, sets up for the year’s first Healdsburg Certified Farmers’ Market on April 12.
PRESENTATION Healdsburg City Manager Jeff Kay, back to camera at right, watches Paul Mitchell of Redistricting Partners outline the process to transition the city into district rather than at-large elections, in the Feb. 18, 2025, council meeting.
Photo by Christian Kallen
FIRST SEASON California artichokes have two peak seasons, the first from March to June when they are at their best.
COLUMNIST The Healdsburg Tribune’s newest columnist is writer/photographer Liza Gershman. ‘Farm + Market’ will appear every other week for the rest of the year.
Villa Chanticleer’s Garden Courtyard is known for its weddings, but on April 13 it was a scene of remembrance and renewal for friends of Jen “Jendala” Utsch, who passed away on Feb. 19. Those in attendance celebrated her impact on Healdsburg and its artistic community, as well as her courage in fighting cancer for more than 6 years. “She was invincible and she was a warrior, and she gave it everything that she possibly could,” said her friend, Mark Themig.
SUBDEADS A preschooler learns her first steps of Sufi dancing as the
March 18, 1935 – March 19, 2025
Martha Greene lived a life rooted in love, compassion, and service. Born in Mexico, she often fondly recalled her early years in Mexico City. At 11, she immigrated with her family to Healdsburg, California, where, as the eldest of eight, she naturally grew into a role of guidance and care.
Her life’s work centered around uplifting others. As a liaison for the Mark West Union School District, Martha developed vital programs for underserved students. Her devotion continued through roles with CHDC, PG&E’s Energy Partners Weatherization Program, and IHSS— each reflecting her unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Her faith was her compass, and her gentle mantra, “God will provide,” guided her through every challenge.
Above all, Martha treasured her family. A loving mother to eight, she also embraced the joy of being a grandmother and a matriarch to a large extended family. She loved reading, sewing, exploring museums, and being near the ocean. Her stories and humor were the heart of every family gathering.
Martha passed away peacefully at home in Santa Rosa on March 19, 2025. Her spirit lives on in every life she touched.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11am on April 25, 2025 at Daniels Chapel of the Roses, followed by a Celebration of Life at Finley Park.
Photo by Rick Tang
SISTER Laura Utsch, a competitive swim coach in Tucson, speaks about her sister Jennifer at the gathering in the garden on Jendala Day.
Photo by Rick Tang
Dead Roses band plays at Villa Chanticleer.
Photo by Christian Kallen
MEMORY TABLE Mementos, photographs and other contributions fill a table in Villa Chanticleer in remembrance of Jennifer ‘Jendala’ Utsch, 1969-2025.
Photo by Tara Harrell
READING Gina Riner gives a heartfelt reading of Mary Oliver’s poem, ‘The Summer Day,’ on Jendala Day.
Photo by Rick Tang
SONICS Soundscapes artist Sanders Schrum provides aural space for meditation and appreciation on April 13.
MARTHA GREENE
Greyhounds Beat Vikings
Back-to-Back
BASEBALL BOYS ON 5-GAME WINNING STREAK
By Caleb Knudsen
Hopes are always high at the beginning of a baseball season, and when they are rewarded by a five-game winning streak midway through league play, hopes can soar.
That’s the position the Healdsburg High varsity baseball team is in this week, coming off backto-back victories over the
Montgomery Vikings to avenge its 7-1 loss on March 29. This time the Greyhounds marshalled their pitching, defense and hitting to outscore the Vikings 13-4 over two games, April 9 and April 11.
Sophomore Noah Wong started the Wednesday game on the mound and continued demonstrating great poise, but ran into trouble in the fifth inning to give up 2 earned runs on three walks and a single.
He made way for senior Eric Nielson to put out the
flames, and held the Vikings scoreless going forward. Meanwhile the Greyhounds sent Montgomery’s Greyson Garris to the showers by plating 3 earned runs in the fifth and sixth, as Isaiah Robles found his swing and went 3-for-4 including a double.
“In the top of the 7th inning in a 3-3 game
Johnny Wallace hit a twoout double to score 3 runs to put us out front,” reported coach Mark Domenichelli.
Nova Perrill II also chipped in with a two-bagger for an
RBI, and the game ended as a 6-3 win for Healdsburg.
The coach credited the shock of that 3-run double for giving the Hounds momentum going into the third game of their season series with Montgomery.
Nielson started the following game two days later and went the distance, giving up only a solitary run in the top of the seventh. He permitted just four hits and struck out eight over his 108-pitch outing.
But the bat attack made the difference. “Hayden
Greyhound Girls Win Big, then Lose
a Close One
FROM A 17-3 OVER ELSIE TO A 8-7 LOSS TO WINDSOR
By Caleb Knudsen
Things looked mighty hopeful there for a few minutes at the end of the April 12 softball game against Windsor. The Jaguars came to visit on a weekend to make up for a rained-out game, bringing a strong 9-4 record to Healdsburg and a 4-1 league record that puts them on top of the North Bay – Oak division, a bigger, tougher division than the Redwood the Greyhounds compete in. The game remained quietly even until the
Mariani led the way with 3 hits and Xander Harms added a 2-RBI double in the 6th to put the game away,” Domenichelli said.
The Hounds scored three times in the fourth and fifth innings, and took advantage of five errors by the Vikings to build their lead.
The score, 7-1, echoed the earlier loss Healdsburg suffered to Montgomery, and gave the Hounds bragging rights on the Vikes this season, two games to one.
Season Runout
The North Bay - Redwood schedule this year sees each team playing the six other teams three times, so the squads become familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of each. At this point Analy is sitting on top with a 7-0 league record, while Healdsburg (5-2) is in the hunt, in second place ahead of Montgomery (4-3).
“The boys are playing well,” Domenichelli said. “We have improved every week, and it’s fun to go to practice. This week will be a great test and I’m looking forward to watching the boys compete against a really good opponent.” That would be leagueleading Analy, which last year competed in the tougher Oak division and is now 7-0 in the Redwood. The games are Wednesday in Sebastopol and Friday, April 18, in Healdsburg. If Healdsburg can make a move, this is the week to do it. The following week also sees back-to-back games, this time against St. Vincent de Paul (April 23 and 25). And later in the season, Healdsburg faces off for a two-in-a-row series against both Santa Rosa and Piner, to close the regular season out on May 9.
Izzy Osborn had a two-hit day, with a double and an RBI. Pitcher Mia Halvorsen also doubled, as did Claire Berry. But the loss dropped the Greyhound girls to 7-5 on the season, 2-3 in the league. The defeat was bitter, not only because the Greyhounds had rallied so strongly in the bottom of the last but because they had come off a 17-3 walloping of league rival Elsie Allen the evening before.
Wachter, however, was called in to get that last out, and she succeeded in getting a strikeout to end the game.
fourth inning, when Windsor unleashed its attack and scored 5 runs, sparked by Kalyse Wachter’s double and triple for 2 RBIs. And when the seventh inning began Windsor had a comfortable 8-2 lead, and looked ready to chalk up another win. But then it was the Greyhounds turn to wake up, and they scored 5 runs in the bottom of the inning, sparked by Hannah Jenkins’ key 2-run triple. Healdsburg had the bases loaded with two outs—all it would take was a walk to tie, a single to win.
Freshman pitcher Halvorsen actually got some time to watch the game, being relieved by Tehya Mitchell who pitched the final two innings. Mitchell gave up 3 runs and walked five in her brief stint, but with a 17-run lead nobody seemed too stressed. This coming week they play three games, all at the high school but only one of them a Redwood matchup. They faced Piedmont (East Bay) on April 15 (winning 13-12 on a dramatic wild pitch that scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh), and will meet St. Vincent on Thursday (5:30pm) and Novato on Friday (6:30pm).
Photos by Michael Lucid
SAFE AT HOME In a cloud of dust and late-afternoon sunlight, Healdsburg’s Hayden Mariani scores the first run in the April
11 game against Montgomery. Healdsburg won the game, 7-1.
BIG CAT Isaiah Robles settles into a pitch at Rec Park. He’s hit 3-4 in each of the last two games against Montgomery, coming to life with the warmer weather.
Photos by Michael Lucid
SCAMPER Outfielder Celia Vallotton is a reliable player for the Greyhound girls in this, her senior year. She leads the Redwood division in runs scored, despite having missed several games.
SCORE! Junior Ashley Jenkins, having evaded the Kelseyville catcher, comes home to score in a recent game.
CRIMES & CONCERNS REPORTED TO HEALDSBURG POLICE, MARCH 31APRIL 6
Residents and others are encouraged to call Police Dispatch as needed at (707) 431-3377, operational 24/7
Monday, March 31
• 7:06am The reporting party (RP) at Rite Aid Drugstore on Healdsburg Avenue indicated a woman with a suitcase was near the front door of the store. The RP asked her to move along multiple times and wanted to file trespassing paperwork against the woman, who has been known to start fires. Officers responded and served the woman trespassing paperwork. She moved along.
8:17am An administrator from Healdsburg High School on Prince Avenue called for advice about what steps the school could take regarding a pair of Smart Glasses that were stolen and posted for sale on a website by a student. An officer responded and provided advice.
1:14pm The RP indicated that a vehicle on Hwy 101 at Dry Creek Road crossed over multiple lanes and cut off vehicles. Officers responded and checked the area, but the vehicle was gone on arrival and unable to be located. The RP was transferred to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
2:05pm A vehicle was stopped near Sake ’O Japanese Restaurant on Healdsburg Avenue for having an object affixed to the windshield or the rear or side windows. The driver was driving without a license. A 36-year-old (YO) man was cited and released to a licensed driver for driving without a license, transporting a child without proper constraints and violating a court order.
9:24pm The RP believed someone attempted to
Ssiphon gas from his vehicle while it was parked in the West Plaza parking lot on Healdsburg Avenue. The RP wanted the police to be aware of the situation.
9:29pm The RP on Healdsburg Avenue reported his stepfather was driving while intoxicated and on probation. The RP believed his stepfather may have driven in San Rafael. The RP was advised to contact the non-emergency number of the San Rafael police department.
10:38pm A vehicle on Hwy 101 at Old Redwood Highway was stopped for violating vehicle-registration rules. A 58-YO man was cited and released on an outstanding out-of-county warrant regarding possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.
Tuesday, April 1
8:15am A driver in the 100 block of Plaza Street was recognized as having a suspended license. A 35YO man was arrested and transported to county jail for driving with a license suspended for driving under the influence (DUI) and violating probation.
4:01pm A person at Safeway on Vine Street looking at gift cards had in the past been asked to leave and not return because he had been caught stealing. When asked to leave this time, he said he was not stealing and needed a gift card. Officers responded and arrested a 48-YO man for public intoxication, violation of probation and criminal threats. He was brought to county jail. Subsequently, an employee reported that the man stole more than $200 worth of alcohol from the store on March 17, 2025, whereupon he was also charged with petty theft.
• 6:55pm The RP at Foss Creek Court on West Grant Street said a group of people were in a verbal altercation near the entrance of the apartment. Marijuana and alcohol were seen, but not weapons. While officers were en route, the RP said that two subjects left southbound on the pathway. Officers arrived
SHELLEY ROTH, M.D.
September 2, 1951 – April 2, 2025
POLICE LOG
and were told the altercation was a verbal dispute between neighbors. No additional police response was needed.
Wednesday, April 2
2:06am A vehicle was stopped on Healdsburg Avenue for violation of headlight rules. A 31-YO woman was cited for drunk driving and released to a responsible party.
7:03am A vehicle accident occurred on Dry Creek Road at Grove Street. The RP stated the vehicles blocked roadways. Officers responded and determined the accident was in the jurisdiction of CHP. Healdsburg officers stayed on the scene until CHP arrived.
• 10:58pm A warrant officer contacted a 26-YO man in the 1100 block of Healdsburg Avenue. He was cited and released on an outstanding Sonoma County warrant regarding possessing a switchblade and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Thursday, April 3
• 1:53pm A car was weaving and straddling lanes on Hwy 101 at Arata Lane. A 24-YO man was cited for drunk driving and released to a responsible party.
• 6:51pm A man with his dog unleashed was fully undressed on the RP’s property on Yew Circle. The man walked onto the property to gain access to the river. Officers arrived on the scene, but the RP did not want to press charges. The man was given appropriate resources.
Friday, April 4
• 8:17am The RP indicated a man and woman were in a verbal dispute at Recreation Park on Piper Street. While the officers were en route, the man left in a vehicle. Officers responded, took a report and entered the vehicle into the Flock license plate reader. An emergency protective order was granted but not served. An arrest warrant was sent to Sonoma County for domestic battery, vandalism and aggravated trespass.
• 10:22am A staggering man
helley was born in Brooklyn, NY to Elenore and Martin Roth. After a few years, the family moved to Lawrence on Long Island where Shelley attended grade school. During that time, she developed kidney disease, eventuating in hemodialysis and at the age of 19, a kidney transplant from her mother. Through all that, she excelled in her studies, graduated from college, and, due to much exposure to wonderful physicians, aspired to become a doctor. She fulfilled that aim at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NYC where she also met her husband-to-be Jed Weissberg on the first day of classes. They both trained in Internal Medicine in Boston and then moved to Northern California where Shelley joined the Kaiser Permanente San Jose/Santa Theresa Department of Medicine.
She practiced there for many years, respected by her colleagues and beloved by her patients until increasing medical problems pushed her to retire. She spent her early retirement years volunteering for the International Rescue Committee, helping to resettle a Liberian family in Oakland and assisting them in accessing medical care. She then volunteered as an Ombuds for Catholic Charities at nursing homes in Santa Clara County.
Eventually, even that became too difficult and she spent time at home in Fremont, CA with her Vizslas and husband. Shelley and Jed enjoyed international travel and managed to visit all seven continents. Moving to Healdsburg in 2018, they made new friends and discovered the joys of Wine Country.
Shelley’s last few years were challenging but she met those challenges with good humor and stoic resolve. The excellent care rendered by Anchor Health Hospice was appreciated. Shelley is survived by her husband Jed, sister-in-law Lynn Weissberg, nephew Jesse Bensettler and Ridgeback Mos. Donations in Shelley’s memory can be made to the International Rescue Committee www.rescue.org.
with a bleeding gash on his forehead was reported in the parking lot of Dollar Tree on Vine Street. Officers and medical help responded. A 40-YO man was arrested for public intoxication and violation of probation. The man was transported to Healdsburg District Hospital for medical clearance, where he was combative with hospital staff. HDH was unable to give him medical clearance so charges and a report were sent to the District Attorney.
• 11:16am The RP on Healdsburg Avenue at March Avenue put his iPad on the hood of his car and drove off. The iPad fell off and someone took it. The RP stated that the iPad pinged all over Sonoma County. The last ping was in Petaluma at the Post Office. An officer responded to the RP, but the RP was busy and said he would call back.
• 8:00pm A person who had been drinking had a confrontation with staff at Spoonbar on Healdsburg Avenue. The RP, an employee, stated the subject assaulted and grabbed women. The RP was undecided about pressing charges. Officers arrived on the scene and the person was taken home by a responsible party. The officers determined that
the assault allegations were unfounded. 8:44pm A vehicle accident occurred on Madrone Avenue at South Fitch Mountain Road. Officers arrived on the scene with fire and medical assistance. The accident was transferred to CHP to handle.
Saturday, April 5
12:13am The RP at McDonald’s on Healdsburg Avenue indicated that the driver of a motorcycle stumbled off and onto the motorcycle. Officers responded and checked the area, but the vehicle was gone on arrival and unable to be located.
9:03pm The RP at Railroad Park on Front Street said he was attacked by someone while walking down the road. The RP said the owner of a business nearby saw the attack and did not call the police. Subsequently, the RP called dispatch again and said he did not want to report what occurred, but might also call dispatch the following day.
Sunday, April 6
• 2:08am The RP on Center Street said to dispatch “never mind” and hung up. Officers arrived on the scene and contacted the subject in his idling car. A 32-YO man was arrested and brought to
AARON ROSEWATER
December 24, 1965 – April 5, 2025
county jail for drunk driving.
8:58am A
Egg Hunt and Potluck Brunch at 11:30am
aron was that rare, rare man who received all the greatest gifts that God could bestow. He was a brilliant polymath, equally adept in the world of statistics, the arts, and culture both high and low. He was a Shakespeare scholar who also had an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of comic books, pop culture, film history… and yes, history in general. He was a trained artist who could easily have been a professional in that field. He was a gifted musician who played guitar as a hobby, but with his signature depth and passion. An example: he loved to meet with his theater loving friends each year for a week of camping in Oregon for the Shakespeare festival. One year he decided he would provide campfire entertainment by learning and playing the entire Beatles catalog. But Aaron, being a perfectionist, was not satisfied with the chord structures of the songs that were presented to him in the books he bought or what he could find online — none of them were strictly accurate. So before learning each song, he first corrected each incorrect chord. We, his family all depended upon him as our living bank of endless knowledge about just about everything under the sun.
That was his brain. But then there was his spirit. His heart.
Aaron was the most even tempered of men. There was no trace of meanness in him anywhere.
He gave his family the gift of a warm, steady, generous love that created a nest of protective nurturance. He lived in a household that operated as a foster home for over sixty small, high strung dogs over the course of twenty years, and his gentle manner set them all at ease. He was a doting father whose great pleasure in life was spending time with his son Emile and his daughter-in -law Natalia. He adored Christmas, and would spend months carefully selecting gifts that would bring the greatest joy to those closest to him. He was a faithful, loving and appreciative husband who never spoke an ugly word in decades of married life.
His great passion was running the family business, Levin and Company Books. His job was a joy to him, and he delighted in creating a carefully curated selection of books, music, games and puzzles, and in interacting with his many friends in the community. People loved him, because he loved them.
He is survived by his mother Adele, wife Gwen, son Emile and Daughter in law Natalia, and his beloved cousins Greg and Keith.
There will be a memorial service, the date yet to be determined.
Photo by Christian Kallen
EYES ON THE STREET One of Healdsburg’s parking enforcement vehicles, used to scour the downtown business area
Located in the heart of California wine country, the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience is a weekend long celebration featuring the best of Sonoma County and world-renowned food and wines.
May 15-18, 2025
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