Wildfire season’s heating up—and so are insurance rates. Mendocino County residents, don’t miss the Willits Wildfire and Insurance Forum & Fair, Thursday, October 9th at 5:30 p.m. at the new California Conservation Corps facility. Learn how homes ignite from wildfire expert Yana Valachovic, and get insurance tips from United Policyholders. Then stick around for free pizza, family fun, and booths from Cal Fire, Red Cross, and more. Admission’s free—come get informed and prepared!
Tragedy struck near Windsor Saturday afternoon. A bicyclist was killed after a Range Rover veered onto the shoulder of Old Redwood Highway, just south of Shiloh Road. The driver stayed at the scene and was not under the influence, according to CHP. The victim was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital but later died. Authorities are investigating the cause. The Sonoma County Coroner will release the man’s identity once his family is notified.
Santa Rosa City Schools faces another financial storm. Interim Superintendent Lisa August warns the district must cut $10 to $15 million more by February—on top of this year’s $20 million deficit. With six schools closing and 150 staff laid off, the county’s top education official says the district could run out of cash without urgent action. Families and staff brace for more tough decisions in a year of historic upheaval.
Nicholas Bard, a 9-year-old bee expert from Santa Rosa has raised a backyard colony for three years through his local 4-H club. But this spring, the city hit his family with a surprise notice—accusing them of running a beekeeping business and ordering the hive removed. Nicholas’s dad says it’s a misunderstanding. The bees aren’t for profit—they’re part of a youth science program. Now the family’s fighting to keep the hive buzzing.
A young Sonoma County correctional deputy has died after a suspected fall from her horse. Kylee Johnson, 22, was off duty when emergency crews responded to Taylor Avenue in Santa Rosa Thursday evening. It’s unclear whether the fall or a medical event caused her death. Johnson joined the Sheriff’s Office in June 2024. An autopsy will determine the cause. The department mourns the loss of one of its newest members.
Sonoma County’s cannabis rules are back in the spotlight. A new ordinance aims to fix years of conflict—but growers and neighbors remain divided. Farmers want fewer restrictions and equal rights to wineries. Residents say odors, traffic, and water strain are still major concerns. Proposed changes include bigger buffers, new exclusion zones, and cannabis event permits. The Board of Supervisors will vote in October. The debate? Still burning hot.
