The fires of November have been so devastating in both the northern and southern parts of the state — with the unprecedented death and destruction of the Camp Fire also resulting... Read More
Oregon has it all: Mountains, forests, rivers, spirited cities and towns and best of all, no traffic compared to the Bay Area. After a quick flight to Eugene (about an hour), my hu... Read More
There’s a classic, soulful slice of early-’70s R&B with the optimistic title “Be Thankful for What You Got,” written and first performed by a cool cat named... Read More
As the two-time defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors — let that fact sink in for a moment — begin their final season at the historic Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Are... Read More
When’s the best time of year for pumpkin ale? If you’re like I am, the answer is always the same: Never. I could explain away the quip with a follow-up about my inner beer-snob... Read More
Not too many serious gold prospectors are left in Calaveras County today, but what you will find are avid golfers and grape growers. It’s the perfect time to plan a visit to this... Read More
Nestled within the vast 80,000 acres of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Cavallo Point is an enclave brimming with tranquility, architectural elegance, and historical resonanc... Read More
The legalization of recreational cannabis means access to the industry has increased, including for tourism. Still in their infancy, cannabis tours are coming into their own. Compa... Read More
When I heard the recent news that the Hemlock Tavern — a cozy showcase room on Polk Street, featuring up-and-coming indie-rock performers for roughly 17 years — was closing in... Read More
It’s always a good time to visit the friendly farming community of Sebastopol in the lush Russian River Valley. Settled in 1812 by Russian explorers, the landscape was first plan... Read More
In my years of covering the entertainment world, I’ve frequently noted the ebb and flow of nightlife venues. The places open, achieve popularity or don’t, and then they either ... Read More
Monterey County is known for the breathtaking coast and idyllic Carmel-by-the-Sea. Less talked about but equally compelling are the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH) wine region in lush ... Read More
When I have an evening screening in downtown San Francisco at the Metreon or Century 9, I generally time things so I can drive from my neighborhood and park on Mission Street, a b... Read More
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada’s historic Gold Rush region, Amador County is a year-round playground — ski and snowboard in the winter, whitewater raft and pick luscious fruit in... Read More
After decades as a Californian who has lived in both San Francisco and Los Angeles for extended periods, I think I have the experience and baseline knowledge to weigh in on the way... Read More