Astrid Kane

Bay Area artist Mark Grieve has unearthed the fossilized remains of an enormous prehistoric species of frog beneath his Sebastopol studio. 

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<p>Bay Area artist Mark Grieve has unearthed the fossilized remains of an enormous prehistoric species of frog beneath his Sebastopol studio. </p>

Calling his extraordinary find “Megla Bufo Giganticus”—a breathlessly hyped scientific name that basically means “super gigantic frog”—Grieve has been showing it off to onlookers. The bones are certainly large. They’re also flattened, calling to mind the O.G. arcade game Frogger.

<p>Calling his extraordinary find “Megla Bufo Giganticus”—a breathlessly hyped scientific name that basically means “super gigantic frog”—Grieve has been showing it off to onlookers. The bones are certainly large. They’re also flattened, calling to mind the O.G. arcade game Frogger.</p>

And, like X-rays, penicillin and Wite-Out, this intact skeleton’s discovery seems to have occurred entirely by accident. It’s not just some elongated froggy femurs, either.&nbsp;

<p>And, like X-rays, penicillin and Wite-Out, this intact skeleton’s discovery seems to have occurred entirely by accident. It’s not just some elongated froggy femurs, either.&nbsp;</p>

Grieve and his team were initially just fixing the floor, but then stumbled upon an entire mythology of frog lore, from petroglyphs to Renaissance portraiture to a previously unknown frog constellation.&nbsp;

<p>Grieve and his team were initially just fixing the floor, but then stumbled upon an entire mythology of frog lore, from petroglyphs to Renaissance portraiture to a previously unknown frog constellation.&nbsp;</p>

“Through subjective research and countless non-billable hours, my team and I have created one of the most intriguing discoveries that have brought people together in a quest for the truth,” Grieve says in a press release.&nbsp;

<p>“Through subjective research and countless non-billable hours, my team and I have created one of the most intriguing discoveries that have brought people together in a quest for the truth,” Grieve says in a press release.&nbsp;</p>

Roloff, left, and Grieve, right, survey their amphibian discovery, now the focal point of a mini museum in Sonoma County.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Screenshot-2023-10-14-at-8.18.38-AM.png?w=2130" alt="" class="wp-image-211259"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Roloff, left, and Grieve, right, survey their amphibian discovery, now the focal point of a mini museum in Sonoma County.</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Screenshot-2023-10-14-at-8.18.38-AM.png?w=2130" alt="" class="wp-image-211259"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Roloff, left, and Grieve, right, survey their amphibian discovery, now the focal point of a mini museum in Sonoma County.</figcaption></figure>

Sure, bigness is almost always a component of P.T. Barnum-esque hoaxes and attractions. But oxygen levels in the atmosphere were once much higher, so you never know.&nbsp;

<p>Sure, bigness is almost always a component of P.T. Barnum-esque hoaxes and attractions. But oxygen levels in the atmosphere were once much higher, so you never know.&nbsp;</p>

Together with a team from the Rabbit Hole Research Institute, Grieve and his team have gone public with their conclusions, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@samroloff8/video/72829370636351">posting on TikTok</a>, Instagram <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLiJrs3O3H8">and YouTube</a> and are eager to challenge any skeptics. Along with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samroloff/?hl=en">fellow artist Sam Roloff</a>, who runs the real-life <a href="https://samroloff.com/the-rabbit-hole-art-gallery-and-studios/">Rabbit Hole Art Studio</a> and also <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/13/one-of-sfs-most-prominent-museums-wants-to-display-your-art/">has work in the de Young Open</a>, they’ve even installed a mini museum around the discovery site.&nbsp;

Want to get your art into the de Young? Here&#8217;s your chance

<p>Together with a team from the Rabbit Hole Research Institute, Grieve and his team have gone public with their conclusions, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@samroloff8/video/72829370636351">posting on TikTok</a>, Instagram <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLiJrs3O3H8">and YouTube</a> and are eager to challenge any skeptics. Along with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samroloff/?hl=en">fellow artist Sam Roloff</a>, who runs the real-life <a href="https://samroloff.com/the-rabbit-hole-art-gallery-and-studios/">Rabbit Hole Art Studio</a> and also <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/13/one-of-sfs-most-prominent-museums-wants-to-display-your-art/">has work in the de Young Open</a>, they’ve even installed a mini museum around the discovery site.&nbsp;</p>

While keeping mum about certain details, Roloff freely admitted to The Standard that he’s a bit of an instigator.

<p>While keeping mum about certain details, Roloff freely admitted to The Standard that he’s a bit of an instigator.</p>

“I do painting and mixed media and I’m definitely provocative, in that I deal with current issues like the Yellow Vests in France,” he said.&nbsp;

<p>“I do painting and mixed media and I’m definitely provocative, in that I deal with current issues like the Yellow Vests in France,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

Belief is something you can mess with, Roloff added, and conspiracy theorists have faith that there’s always someone out there crazier than them. The piece—er, exhibit—is about what assumptions people bring to stuff they find online.

<p>Belief is something you can mess with, Roloff added, and conspiracy theorists have faith that there’s always someone out there crazier than them. The piece—er, exhibit—is about what assumptions people bring to stuff they find online.</p>

But why a frog? Or, rather, how did they happen to discover a frog?

<p>But why a frog? Or, rather, how did they happen to discover a frog?</p>

“I’m not sure what we’re saying, but it’s more about the absurdity of this frog living among us,” he said. “And if you don’t believe us, well, here’s all this proof.”

<p>“I’m not sure what we’re saying, but it’s more about the absurdity of this frog living among us,” he said. “And if you don’t believe us, well, here’s all this proof.”</p>

A painting of a frog cardinal indicates that the amphibians have infiltrated human culture to a greater extent than previously believed.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/DSC06300.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-211258"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A painting of a frog cardinal indicates that the amphibians have infiltrated human culture to a greater extent than previously believed.</figcaption></figure>


Easy to hear but hard to spot, frogs occupy a unique place in the cultural imagination. A plague of frogs features in the Book of Exodus (and the movie <em>Magnolia</em>). Kissing one won’t give you warts, although licking one might get you high. And the dino-mayhem in <em>Jurassic Park</em> occurred because scientists swapped in the DNA of frogs that can change their biological sex.

<p>Easy to hear but hard to spot, frogs occupy a unique place in the cultural imagination. A plague of frogs features in the Book of Exodus (and the movie <em>Magnolia</em>). Kissing one won’t give you warts, although licking one might get you high. And the dino-mayhem in <em>Jurassic Park</em> occurred because scientists swapped in the DNA of frogs that can change their biological sex.</p>

<p>They’re mostly benign, though.&nbsp;</p>

The top-hatted Michigan J. Frog became the Warner Bros. mascot on the strength of a single <em>Looney Tunes</em> appearance. In <em>The Muppet Movie</em>, Kermit the Frog evades Doc Hopper’s single-minded quest to enlist him as a spokes-amphibian for a nationwide chain of french-fried frog leg restaurants. Arnold Lobel’s low-key buddies <em>Frog and Toad</em> <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/frogandtoadmemes/">have taken on another life as memes</a>, although none as potent as alt-right avatar Pepe the Frog became in 2016.&nbsp;

<p>The top-hatted Michigan J. Frog became the Warner Bros. mascot on the strength of a single <em>Looney Tunes</em> appearance. In <em>The Muppet Movie</em>, Kermit the Frog evades Doc Hopper’s single-minded quest to enlist him as a spokes-amphibian for a nationwide chain of french-fried frog leg restaurants. Arnold Lobel’s low-key buddies <em>Frog and Toad</em> <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/frogandtoadmemes/">have taken on another life as memes</a>, although none as potent as alt-right avatar Pepe the Frog became in 2016.&nbsp;</p>

So the idea of a suppressed ancient frog cult makes sense. Megla Bufo has started to light up the internet, too. Replies on a Nextdoor post <a href="https://nextdoor.com/p/MZjKp2QcSCY5">tried to debunk the find</a>, sometimes in a hesitant way that made other commenters pounce.

<p>So the idea of a suppressed ancient frog cult makes sense. Megla Bufo has started to light up the internet, too. Replies on a Nextdoor post <a href="https://nextdoor.com/p/MZjKp2QcSCY5">tried to debunk the find</a>, sometimes in a hesitant way that made other commenters pounce.</p>

Curious onlookers can decide for themselves at the Rabbit Hole in Sebastopol <a href="https://samroloff.com/the-rabbit-hole-art-gallery-and-studios/">every day through Nov. 18</a>, when there will be a farewell celebration for a creature that may join Sasquatch, the Loch Ness Monster and the chupacabra.

<p>Curious onlookers can decide for themselves at the Rabbit Hole in Sebastopol <a href="https://samroloff.com/the-rabbit-hole-art-gallery-and-studios/">every day through Nov. 18</a>, when there will be a farewell celebration for a creature that may join Sasquatch, the Loch Ness Monster and the chupacabra.</p>

Unlike Mark Twain’s celebrated frog of Calaveras County, this one’s immobile and planted firmly in Sonoma.

<p>Unlike Mark Twain’s celebrated frog of Calaveras County, this one’s immobile and planted firmly in Sonoma.</p>

Human-size frog skeleton was found under a Sonoma County art studio

A former mayor of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=sebastopol">Sebastopol</a> got seven years in prison for sexual misconduct with a minor, the Sonoma County District Attorney&#8217;s Office said.

<p>A former mayor of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=sebastopol">Sebastopol</a> got seven years in prison for sexual misconduct with a minor, the Sonoma County District Attorney's Office said.</p>

<p>A former mayor of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=sebastopol">Sebastopol</a> got seven years in prison for sexual misconduct with a minor, the Sonoma County District Attorney&#8217;s Office said.</p>

Robert Jacob, 46, allegedly met his victim online in early 2020 when the boy was 14 years old. Over the course of the next year, prosecutors say, Jacob chatted with the victim and eventually the conversations turned sexual.

<p>Robert Jacob, 46, allegedly met his victim online in early 2020 when the boy was 14 years old. Over the course of the next year, prosecutors say, Jacob chatted with the victim and eventually the conversations turned sexual.</p>

Jacob sent the boy lewd videos and the victim would go to Jacob&#8217;s house in Sebastopol under the guise of doing chores for him, prosecutors said. 

<p>Jacob sent the boy lewd videos and the victim would go to Jacob's house in Sebastopol under the guise of doing chores for him, prosecutors said. </p>

<p>Jacob sent the boy lewd videos and the victim would go to Jacob&#8217;s house in Sebastopol under the guise of doing chores for him, prosecutors said. </p>

According to the Sonoma County DA, Jacob engaged in sexual acts with the boy when he was 14 and 15 years old and made the victim engage in sex acts with another man at his home. 

<p>According to the Sonoma County DA, Jacob engaged in sexual acts with the boy when he was 14 and 15 years old and made the victim engage in sex acts with another man at his home. </p>

Jacob pleaded no contest in January to six felony counts including procuring a child to engage in a lewd act with another adult, sexual penetration of a minor, engaging in a lewd act with a minor, sending lewd material to a minor and communicating with a minor with the intent to commit a sex crime. 

<p>Jacob pleaded no contest in January to six felony counts including procuring a child to engage in a lewd act with another adult, sexual penetration of a minor, engaging in a lewd act with a minor, sending lewd material to a minor and communicating with a minor with the intent to commit a sex crime. </p>

The case that culminated with Jacob&#8217;s sentencing Thursday might never have happened without help from the boy he allegedly abused, officials said.

<p>The case that culminated with Jacob's sentencing Thursday might never have happened without help from the boy he allegedly abused, officials said. </p>

<p>The case that culminated with Jacob&#8217;s sentencing Thursday might never have happened without help from the boy he allegedly abused, officials said. </p>

&#8220;The victim should be commended for coming forward to report what Mr. Jacob did,&#8221; District Attorney Carla Rodriguez said. &#8220;His bravery in reporting Mr. Jacob&#8217;s crimes has made the community a safer place.&#8221;

<p>"The victim should be commended for coming forward to report what Mr. Jacob did," District Attorney Carla Rodriguez said. "His bravery in reporting Mr. Jacob's crimes has made the community a safer place."</p>

<p>&#8220;The victim should be commended for coming forward to report what Mr. Jacob did,&#8221; District Attorney Carla Rodriguez said. &#8220;His bravery in reporting Mr. Jacob&#8217;s crimes has made the community a safer place.&#8221;</p>

Jacob, who founded a cannabis dispensary called Peace in Medicine in 2007, was elected to the Sebastopol City Council in 2012 and became mayor the following year.

<p>Jacob, who founded a cannabis dispensary called Peace in Medicine in 2007, was elected to the Sebastopol City Council in 2012 and became mayor the following year.</p>

Ex-Sebastopol mayor gets 7 years for sexually abusing a child

Maryann Jones Thompson

Post-harvest Wine Country is a happy time. With many vines and trees still sporting their fall colors and a host of holiday happenings on the calendar, both locals and day trippers will find a variety of festivities worth checking out.

<p>Post-harvest Wine Country is a happy time. With many vines and trees still sporting their fall colors and a host of holiday happenings on the calendar, both locals and day trippers will find a variety of festivities worth checking out.</p>

If you’re up for a Christmas market, a <a href="https://www.flamingoresort.com/events/sippin-santa/20-nov-2023/">Sippin’ Santa</a> cocktail or some world-class wine tasting bedecked with all the trimmings of the season, peruse the highlights below or <a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/sonoma-events?f%5b1%5d=eventcategories%3A896">check this calendar online for more than 100 additional events</a> taking place around Sonoma County this holiday season.

<p>If you’re up for a Christmas market, a <a href="https://www.flamingoresort.com/events/sippin-santa/20-nov-2023/">Sippin’ Santa</a> cocktail or some world-class wine tasting bedecked with all the trimmings of the season, peruse the highlights below or <a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/sonoma-events?f%5b1%5d=eventcategories%3A896">check this calendar online for more than 100 additional events</a> taking place around Sonoma County this holiday season.</p>

<strong>Taste Christmas Reds and Whites</strong>


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Vintners throughout Sonoma County make a special effort to dress up for the holidays. And Ram’s Gate pulls out all the stops, decking out its tasting rooms. 

<p>Vintners throughout Sonoma County make a special effort to dress up for the holidays. And Ram’s Gate pulls out all the stops, decking out its tasting rooms. </p>

Known for its dramatic design and setting, the Carneros winery offers a variety of <a href="https://ramsgatewinery.com/pages/experiences">wine tasting experiences paired with foods of the season</a>. Ram’s Gate is also known for its glamorous annual holiday gala, taking place on Dec. 9 and celebrating Old Hollywood.

<p>Known for its dramatic design and setting, the Carneros winery offers a variety of <a href="https://ramsgatewinery.com/pages/experiences">wine tasting experiences paired with foods of the season</a>. Ram’s Gate is also known for its glamorous annual holiday gala, taking place on Dec. 9 and celebrating Old Hollywood.</p>

Ram's Gate Winery old Hollywood Christmas. 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/rams-gate-winery-holiday-image-6.jpg?w=1800" alt="An old-fashioned red car sits under a Christmas wreath." class="wp-image-224904"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A classic car is seen at Ram&#8217;s Gate Winery old Hollywood Christmas. </figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/rams-gate-winery-holiday-image-6.jpg?w=1800" alt="An old-fashioned red car sits under a Christmas wreath." class="wp-image-224904"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A classic car is seen at Ram's Gate Winery old Hollywood Christmas. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/rams-gate-winery-holiday-image-6.jpg?w=1800" alt="An old-fashioned red car sits under a Christmas wreath." class="wp-image-224904"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A classic car is seen at Ram&#8217;s Gate Winery old Hollywood Christmas. </figcaption></figure>

<a href="https://ledson.com/">Ledson Winery</a> in Kenwood and <a href="https://www.bacchuslanding.com/">Bacchus Landing</a> in Healdsburg are also known to host very merry tasting sessions. Or head to <a href="https://sonomavalleywine.com/event/glen-ellen-holiday-stroll/">Glen Ellen for its Holiday Stroll</a> past village wineries and shops on Dec. 14.

<p><a href="https://ledson.com/">Ledson Winery</a> in Kenwood and <a href="https://www.bacchuslanding.com/">Bacchus Landing</a> in Healdsburg are also known to host very merry tasting sessions. Or head to <a href="https://sonomavalleywine.com/event/glen-ellen-holiday-stroll/">Glen Ellen for its Holiday Stroll</a> past village wineries and shops on Dec. 14.</p>

<strong>‘Daycation’ at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn &amp; Spa in Sonoma</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daycation-at-the-fairmont-sonoma-mission-inn-amp-spa-in-sonoma"><strong>‘Daycation’ at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn &amp; Spa in Sonoma</strong></h2>


Though its display is not as <a href="https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-hotel-for-the-holidays-2023/leaderboard/">extraordinary as its sister property on Nob Hill</a>, the Fairmont in Sonoma provides its guests with a happy holiday: Give yourself the <a href="https://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/">gift of a spa treatment or daycation at a poolside cabana</a>. You deserve it.

<p>Though its display is not as <a href="https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-hotel-for-the-holidays-2023/leaderboard/">extraordinary as its sister property on Nob Hill</a>, the Fairmont in Sonoma provides its guests with a happy holiday: Give yourself the <a href="https://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/">gift of a spa treatment or daycation at a poolside cabana</a>. You deserve it.</p>

Book a spa treatement or 'daycation' at a poolside cabana at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gettyimages-610093114.jpg?w=2500" alt="People stand near a stone fountain filled with water and lily pads." class="wp-image-224896"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Book a spa treatment or &#8220;daycation&#8221; at a poolside cabana at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. </figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gettyimages-610093114.jpg?w=2500" alt="People stand near a stone fountain filled with water and lily pads." class="wp-image-224896"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Book a spa treatment or "daycation" at a poolside cabana at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gettyimages-610093114.jpg?w=2500" alt="People stand near a stone fountain filled with water and lily pads." class="wp-image-224896"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Book a spa treatment or &#8220;daycation&#8221; at a poolside cabana at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. </figcaption></figure>

<strong>The Barlow Tasting Tour in Sebastopol</strong>&nbsp;


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It’s the perfect time of year to check out Sebastopol’s lively outdoor artisanal market area with 30 restaurants and shops. For the holidays, <a href="https://thebarlow.net/">the Barlow</a> is offering a <a href="https://thebarlow.net/pages/barlow-tasting-tour">“behind-the-scenes” tasting tour to highlight seven of its specialty food and wine purveyors</a>, including West County makers of cheese, olive oil, spirits and wine.

<p>It’s the perfect time of year to check out Sebastopol’s lively outdoor artisanal market area with 30 restaurants and shops. For the holidays, <a href="https://thebarlow.net/">the Barlow</a> is offering a <a href="https://thebarlow.net/pages/barlow-tasting-tour">“behind-the-scenes” tasting tour to highlight seven of its specialty food and wine purveyors</a>, including West County makers of cheese, olive oil, spirits and wine.</p>

<strong>Historical Shopping Opportunities</strong>


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In addition to the Barlow, Sonoma County is peppered with historic shopping areas that’ll help you get gifts for everyone on your list. They include the <a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/shopping-plaza-healdsburg">Healdsburg</a> and <a href="https://sonomaplaza.com/shopping/">Sonoma plazas</a>, <a href="https://www.visitpetaluma.com/?utm_source=madden&amp;utm_medium=googlecpc&amp;utm_campaign=dm-capet&amp;utm_content=visit&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAx_GqBhBQEiwAlDNAZpA_KVA7HS3WtaGBB3-1OmdjPx7rE4LRb8l5nPzep_kj-R54jQZrBBoC4NMQAvD_BwE">downtown Petaluma</a> and <a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/duncans-mills-overview">Duncan Mills</a> in the Russian River Valley.

<p>In addition to the Barlow, Sonoma County is peppered with historic shopping areas that’ll help you get gifts for everyone on your list. They include the <a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/shopping-plaza-healdsburg">Healdsburg</a> and <a href="https://sonomaplaza.com/shopping/">Sonoma plazas</a>, <a href="https://www.visitpetaluma.com/?utm_source=madden&amp;utm_medium=googlecpc&amp;utm_campaign=dm-capet&amp;utm_content=visit&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAx_GqBhBQEiwAlDNAZpA_KVA7HS3WtaGBB3-1OmdjPx7rE4LRb8l5nPzep_kj-R54jQZrBBoC4NMQAvD_BwE">downtown Petaluma</a> and <a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/duncans-mills-overview">Duncan Mills</a> in the Russian River Valley.</p>

Visitors at Benziger Family Winery enjoy a tram tour through the vineyard in Glen Ellen. Head to Glen Ellen for the  Holiday Stroll past wineries and shops on Dec. 14. 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gettyimages-676672282.jpg?w=2500" alt="People ride a tram through the vineyard in Glen Ellen." class="wp-image-224894"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Visitors at Benziger Family Winery enjoy a tram tour through the vineyard in Glen Ellen. Head to Glen Ellen for the Holiday Stroll past wineries and shops on Dec. 14. </figcaption></figure>


<strong>Tropical Winter Wonderland at the Flamingo Resort &amp; Spa in Santa Rosa</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-winter-wonderland-at-the-flamingo-resort-amp-spa-in-santa-rosa-nbsp-nbsp"><strong>Tropical Winter Wonderland at the Flamingo Resort &amp; Spa in Santa Rosa</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>


You’ll find palms decked out as Christmas trees, holiday tiki cocktails and decor that features a rattan sleigh pulled by flamingos at the <a href="https://www.flamingoresort.com/experiences/tropical-winter-wonderland/">Flamingo Resort</a>, Santa Rosa’s famous tropical motor court.

<p>You’ll find palms decked out as Christmas trees, holiday tiki cocktails and decor that features a rattan sleigh pulled by flamingos at the <a href="https://www.flamingoresort.com/experiences/tropical-winter-wonderland/">Flamingo Resort</a>, Santa Rosa’s famous tropical motor court.</p>

<strong>Ice Skate on Snoopy’s Home Ice in Santa Rosa</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-skate-on-snoopy-s-home-ice-in-santa-rosa"><strong>Ice Skate on Snoopy’s Home Ice in Santa Rosa</strong></h2>


No one needs a holiday to visit <a href="https://www.snoopyshomeice.com/">Snoopy’s Home Ice</a>, the most famous—and one of the last—ice skating rinks in the Bay Area. But Snoopy’s goes all out during December with<a href="https://www.snoopyshomeice.com/holidays-events"> free ice skating exhibitions and holiday shows</a>, not to mention times for the public to skate every day.

<p>No one needs a holiday to visit <a href="https://www.snoopyshomeice.com/">Snoopy’s Home Ice</a>, the most famous—and one of the last—ice skating rinks in the Bay Area. But Snoopy’s goes all out during December with<a href="https://www.snoopyshomeice.com/holidays-events"> free ice skating exhibitions and holiday shows</a>, not to mention times for the public to skate every day.</p>

Make a happy holiday trip up to Sonoma County

Christina Campodonico

With its predominantly mild climate, the Bay Area’s change in season may be less dramatic than in other climes, but fall has arrived in the fields of the region.&nbsp;

<p>With its predominantly mild climate, the Bay Area’s change in season may be less dramatic than in other climes, but fall has arrived in the fields of the region.&nbsp;</p>

Gone are the summer days of cherries, peaches, nectarines and pluots, but there’s still time to catch the tail end of berry season and harvest the bounty of fall, which offers <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-bay-area-guide-pumpkin-patches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than just pumpkins</a>. Local farms throughout the Bay Area are continuing “U-pick” fruit days, with opportunities to pluck crisp apples, bite into juicy berries and gather beautiful sunflowers.&nbsp;

Here’s where to find the best pumpkin patches in San Francisco and beyond

<p>Gone are the summer days of cherries, peaches, nectarines and pluots, but there’s still time to catch the tail end of berry season and harvest the bounty of fall, which offers <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-bay-area-guide-pumpkin-patches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than just pumpkins</a>. Local farms throughout the Bay Area are continuing “U-pick” fruit days, with opportunities to pluck crisp apples, bite into juicy berries and gather beautiful sunflowers.&nbsp;</p>

Here’s a sampling of what’s fresh.&nbsp;

<p>Here’s a sampling of what’s fresh.&nbsp;</p>

<strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-bay-area-guide-pumpkin-patches/">Here’s Where To Find the Best Pumpkin Patches in San Francisco and Beyond</a>

<p><strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-bay-area-guide-pumpkin-patches/">Here’s Where To Find the Best Pumpkin Patches in San Francisco and Beyond</a></p>

To find farms near you, check out the chart and map below. As Mother Nature can be unpredictable, we recommend also checking out these growers’ websites and social media for updates—or calling ahead.&nbsp;

<p>To find farms near you, check out the chart and map below. As Mother Nature can be unpredictable, we recommend also checking out these growers’ websites and social media for updates—or calling ahead.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strawberries-nbsp">Strawberries&nbsp;</h2>


Strawberry season <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2023-06-19/what-happened-strawberries-spring-weather#:~:text=California%20produces%2090%25%20of%20the,season%20usually%20begins%20in%20March." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">usually lasts from January to July and typically peaks in March</a>, but you can still find juicy berries at <a href="https://bluehousefarm.com/farmstand" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue House Farm</a> down the coast in San Gregorio.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>Strawberry season <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2023-06-19/what-happened-strawberries-spring-weather#:~:text=California%20produces%2090%25%20of%20the,season%20usually%20begins%20in%20March." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">usually lasts from January to July and typically peaks in March</a>, but you can still find juicy berries at <a href="https://bluehousefarm.com/farmstand" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue House Farm</a> down the coast in San Gregorio.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

“Our strawberry season is certainly slowing down now, but we typically leave our strawberry U-pick open through October,” Blue House’s Farmstand &amp; Farmer&#8217;s Market Manager Claire Pinkham wrote in an email to The Standard. “As the month wears on, it becomes more of a treasure hunt, but as of now there are still plenty of ripe and delicious berries out there.”&nbsp;

<p>“Our strawberry season is certainly slowing down now, but we typically leave our strawberry U-pick open through October,” Blue House’s Farmstand &amp; Farmer's Market Manager Claire Pinkham wrote in an email to The Standard. “As the month wears on, it becomes more of a treasure hunt, but as of now there are still plenty of ripe and delicious berries out there.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our strawberry season is certainly slowing down now, but we typically leave our strawberry U-pick open through October,” Blue House’s Farmstand &amp; Farmer&#8217;s Market Manager Claire Pinkham wrote in an email to The Standard. “As the month wears on, it becomes more of a treasure hunt, but as of now there are still plenty of ripe and delicious berries out there.”&nbsp;</p>

Strawberries are still in season through October at Blue House Farm in San Gregorio.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/IMG_1140-rotated.jpg?w=1875" alt="" class="wp-image-206710"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Strawberries are still in season through October at Blue House Farm in San Gregorio.</figcaption></figure>


Rough winter weather and late rains have extended the season, but Blue Farm also credits its location along the coast for helping the strawberries flourish late into the fall.&nbsp;

<p>Rough winter weather and late rains have extended the season, but Blue Farm also credits its location along the coast for helping the strawberries flourish late into the fall.&nbsp;</p>

“Being so close to the ocean means that temperatures are mild all summer long, and this is weather in which strawberries thrive!” Pinkham wrote.

<p>“Being so close to the ocean means that temperatures are mild all summer long, and this is weather in which strawberries thrive!” Pinkham wrote.</p>

U-pick hours run from noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No reservations or fees are required for the first-come, first-served experience—you just have to pay for what you pick. Strawberries cost $7 per pound. Pumpkins ($3 to $30, depending on size) are also available to pick from the farm’s organic patch through Oct. 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>U-pick hours run from noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No reservations or fees are required for the first-come, first-served experience—you just have to pay for what you pick. Strawberries cost $7 per pound. Pumpkins ($3 to $30, depending on size) are also available to pick from the farm’s organic patch through Oct. 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunflowers">Sunflowers</h2>


Coastal explorers can also find sunflowers ripe for the harvest in Half Moon Bay.&nbsp;

<p>Coastal explorers can also find sunflowers ripe for the harvest in Half Moon Bay.&nbsp;</p>

<a href="https://andreottifamily.farm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andreotti Family Farms</a>’ field, which also hosts a pumpkin patch and corn maze starting in October, is now open seven days a week for folks looking to pluck posies or fill their Instagram feeds with floral photos.&nbsp;

<p><a href="https://andreottifamily.farm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andreotti Family Farms</a>’ field, which also hosts a pumpkin patch and corn maze starting in October, is now open seven days a week for folks looking to pluck posies or fill their Instagram feeds with floral photos.&nbsp;</p>

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Holding photoshoots in the field is a popular pastime, notes Andreotti Farms’ Terry Andreotti, who says that models from as far afield as Los Angeles and New York City flock to the multiacre field of flowers. Local <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CxEl-dNv7Od/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photographers</a> also <a href="https://andreottifamily.farm/andreotti-family-farms-professional-photographer-registration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hold portrait sessions</a> in the field for those looking to commemorate pregnancies, engagements and more.&nbsp;

<p>Holding photoshoots in the field is a popular pastime, notes Andreotti Farms’ Terry Andreotti, who says that models from as far afield as Los Angeles and New York City flock to the multiacre field of flowers. Local <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CxEl-dNv7Od/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photographers</a> also <a href="https://andreottifamily.farm/andreotti-family-farms-professional-photographer-registration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hold portrait sessions</a> in the field for those looking to commemorate pregnancies, engagements and more.&nbsp;</p>

While you may be tempted to pick sunflowers in full bloom, Andreotti recommends picking buds about to flower.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>While you may be tempted to pick sunflowers in full bloom, Andreotti recommends picking buds about to flower.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

“A lot of people want them open, but you can pick them closed, and they’ll open in water,” Andreotti said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>“A lot of people want them open, but you can pick them closed, and they’ll open in water,” Andreotti said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

The entrance fee is $18 per person, which allows you to take home up to 10 flowers (each additional blossom costs $1), and children under 5 get in free.&nbsp;

<p>The entrance fee is $18 per person, which allows you to take home up to 10 flowers (each additional blossom costs $1), and children under 5 get in free.&nbsp;</p>

For the first time, the farm is also offering zinnias in all different colors for sale: $2 per flower or $5 per bunch. Reservations are not required, and the sunflower field, pumpkin patch and corn maze will be open through the end of October.&nbsp;

<p>For the first time, the farm is also offering zinnias in all different colors for sale: $2 per flower or $5 per bunch. Reservations are not required, and the sunflower field, pumpkin patch and corn maze will be open through the end of October.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apples-amp-pears-nbsp">Apples &amp; Pears&nbsp;</h2>


<a href="https://www.mikeandsallygalebeefranch.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chileno Valley Ranch</a> in Petaluma is open for apple picking on Sunday mornings by appointment only and closes as soon as it runs out of apples. Ripe varieties include Senshu, Mutsu, Pinova and Candy Crisp, and the farm also offers pears.&nbsp;

<p><a href="https://www.mikeandsallygalebeefranch.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chileno Valley Ranch</a> in Petaluma is open for apple picking on Sunday mornings by appointment only and closes as soon as it runs out of apples. Ripe varieties include Senshu, Mutsu, Pinova and Candy Crisp, and the farm also offers pears.&nbsp;</p>

The farm’s dwarf trees are the perfect size for children to pick from, says the ranch’s Sally Gale, and nature walks and farm tours are also available.&nbsp;

<p>The farm’s dwarf trees are the perfect size for children to pick from, says the ranch’s Sally Gale, and nature walks and farm tours are also available.&nbsp;</p>

Apples are ripe at Ratzlaff Ranch's Apple-a-Day orchard at 13128 Occidental Rd. in Sebastopol.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED011_FruitPickingGuide09202023.jpg.jpg?w=2000" alt="" class="wp-image-206652"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ratzlaff Ranch&#8217;s Apple-a-Day orchard grows Golden Delicious apples and Rome Beauties. </figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED011_FruitPickingGuide09202023.jpg.jpg?w=2000" alt="" class="wp-image-206652"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ratzlaff Ranch's Apple-a-Day orchard grows Golden Delicious apples and Rome Beauties. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED011_FruitPickingGuide09202023.jpg.jpg?w=2000" alt="" class="wp-image-206652"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ratzlaff Ranch&#8217;s Apple-a-Day orchard grows Golden Delicious apples and Rome Beauties. </figcaption></figure>

The next sign-up for reservations opens at 9 a.m. Monday at Chileno Valley’s website. The entrance fee is $10, cash only.&nbsp;

<p>The next sign-up for reservations opens at 9 a.m. Monday at Chileno Valley’s website. The entrance fee is $10, cash only.&nbsp;</p>

Sebastopol’s <a href="https://www.earthseedfarm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthseed Farms</a>&#8216; <a href="https://www.earthseedfarm.org/u-pick" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">next U-pick days for apples</a> are Oct. 7 and 8, with reservations opening at 9 a.m. on Tuesday. The entry fee is $35 per group of four and $7.50 for each additional person; apples cost $4 a pound. Asian pears are also currently available in the farm’s store for $6 a pound. Persimmons and guava are expected to ripen in November. Reservations open on Tuesdays prior to Saturday U-pick days.

<p>Sebastopol’s <a href="https://www.earthseedfarm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthseed Farms</a>' <a href="https://www.earthseedfarm.org/u-pick" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">next U-pick days for apples</a> are Oct. 7 and 8, with reservations opening at 9 a.m. on Tuesday. The entry fee is $35 per group of four and $7.50 for each additional person; apples cost $4 a pound. Asian pears are also currently available in the farm’s store for $6 a pound. Persimmons and guava are expected to ripen in November. Reservations open on Tuesdays prior to Saturday U-pick days.</p>

<p>Sebastopol’s <a href="https://www.earthseedfarm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthseed Farms</a>&#8216; <a href="https://www.earthseedfarm.org/u-pick" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">next U-pick days for apples</a> are Oct. 7 and 8, with reservations opening at 9 a.m. on Tuesday. The entry fee is $35 per group of four and $7.50 for each additional person; apples cost $4 a pound. Asian pears are also currently available in the farm’s store for $6 a pound. Persimmons and guava are expected to ripen in November. Reservations open on Tuesdays prior to Saturday U-pick days.</p>

Ratzlaff Ranch's Apple-a-Day orchard will stay open until all the fruit is harvested.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED007_FruitPickingGuide09202023.jpg.jpg?w=1704" alt="" class="wp-image-206648"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ratzlaff Ranch&#8217;s Apple-a-Day orchard will stay open until all the fruit is harvested.</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED007_FruitPickingGuide09202023.jpg.jpg?w=1704" alt="" class="wp-image-206648"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ratzlaff Ranch's Apple-a-Day orchard will stay open until all the fruit is harvested.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED007_FruitPickingGuide09202023.jpg.jpg?w=1704" alt="" class="wp-image-206648"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ratzlaff Ranch&#8217;s Apple-a-Day orchard will stay open until all the fruit is harvested.</figcaption></figure>

<a href="https://appleadayranch.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ratzlaff Ranch</a>, also in Sebastopol, opens its Apple-a-Day orchards on Sunday, and will remain open until all its apples are harvested. No reservations are required, and the farm is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Thursdays and Saturdays.&nbsp;

<p><a href="https://appleadayranch.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ratzlaff Ranch</a>, also in Sebastopol, opens its Apple-a-Day orchards on Sunday, and will remain open until all its apples are harvested. No reservations are required, and the farm is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Thursdays and Saturdays.&nbsp;</p>

Apples cost $2.50 per pound, and Golden Delicious and Rome Beauty varieties are available. The stand also sells cider and juice made from apples on its farm as well as breads and caramels from its stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>Apples cost $2.50 per pound, and Golden Delicious and Rome Beauty varieties are available. The stand also sells cider and juice made from apples on its farm as well as breads and caramels from its stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-various-varieties-nbsp">Various Varieties&nbsp;</h2>


A range of seasonal fruits and vegetables are still available at <a href="https://www.cloverfieldfarm.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cloverfield Organic Farm</a> in El Sobrante. What’s ready for the picking might be a bit of a surprise this time of year, says farmhand Michael Lancaster, but that’s part of the beauty and fun of exploring the 4.5-acre farm.

<p>A range of seasonal fruits and vegetables are still available at <a href="https://www.cloverfieldfarm.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cloverfield Organic Farm</a> in El Sobrante. What’s ready for the picking might be a bit of a surprise this time of year, says farmhand Michael Lancaster, but that’s part of the beauty and fun of exploring the 4.5-acre farm.</p>

You can check the <a href="https://www.cloverfieldfarm.us/post/cloverfield-farm-fruit-ripening-calendar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farm’s website</a> to see what’s expected to ripen soon, but some autumnal varieties include figs, quinces, walnuts, pears, persimmons, olives, mandarins and jujubes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>You can check the <a href="https://www.cloverfieldfarm.us/post/cloverfield-farm-fruit-ripening-calendar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farm’s website</a> to see what’s expected to ripen soon, but some autumnal varieties include figs, quinces, walnuts, pears, persimmons, olives, mandarins and jujubes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Susan Truscott harvests a fennel bulb at her Cloverfield Organic Farm in El Sobrante. | Courtesy Cloverfield Organic Farm


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/susan-truscott-cloverfield-farm.jpg?w=628" alt="" class="wp-image-168939"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Susan Truscott harvests a fennel bulb at her Cloverfield Organic Farm in El Sobrante. </figcaption></figure>


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