Press Democrat: Local

Skeptical lawmakers say painful choices still ahead

January 7, 2004

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's State of the State speech Tuesday was long on showmanship and short on specifics, North Coast lawmakers said.

State of the state highlights

Called on legislators to help him urge voters to approve $15 billion in bonds, and spending limits.

County educators waiting to see budget

Tuesday's State of the State speech drew positive reviews, but Sonoma County school officials said they must review Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's budget plan before judging his designs for public education.

Walsh pleased with diocese audit

Santa Rosa Bishop Daniel Walsh said Tuesday he was pleased with the results of a national audit that found most Catholic dioceses, including Santa Rosa, have complied with a national policy aimed at preventing sexual abuse of children.

Petaluma celebrates flood control funding

After more than $35 million in damage and a 22-year effort to secure funds and engineer a solution, the Petaluma River Flood Control Project is entering its final phase.

Board to hold evening sessions

In a move to encourage more public participation, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors will begin meeting at night on a trial basis.

Kenwood winery expansion approved, with limits

The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved plans by a small Kenwood winery to expand, but placed tight controls on dinners, weddings and other special events at the facility.

Court date set for accused SR teacher

A Santa Rosa Middle School teacher is to appear in federal court Jan. 20 in San Francisco on charges of possessing child pornography.

Around the Empire

State forestry officials rejected an appeal Tuesday by a Stewarts Point rancher who sought approval to log a 44-acre tract of old-growth forest on his land in northwestern Sonoma County.