🌱 2nd August Supermoon From Wildfire Smoke + Sonoma Co. Wine Auction

Hello again, everybody. It's Thursday in Healdsburg and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on the most important things happening locally.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 92 Low: 58.

Here are the top three stories in Healdsburg today:

1. A fiery red-blue moon, given its color due to smoke from wildfires, appeared in the sky over Sonoma County early Wednesday. This blue moon, the second full moon in a single month, also marked the second August supermoon, when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit. Supermoons can appear up to 14 percent larger and brighter than regular full moons, and the red hue was attributed to smoke from Northern California wildfires. (The Press-Democrat)
2. Bidders are gearing up for the Sonoma County Wine Auction on Sep. 16, the culmination of a three-day event that raises funds for local nonprofits through extravagant wine trips, exclusive wines, and unique experiences. The live auction features approximately two dozen lots that are expected to attract strong interest due to their prestige and allure. The event will take place at La Crema Winery in Windsor, where bidders will vie for these compelling lots that promise memorable experiences and sought-after wines. (The Press-Democrat)
3. Enso Village, a senior living community in Healdsburg developed by The Kendal Corporation and the San Francisco Zen Center, has welcomed Executive Chef Kyle Evans to its team. Set to open this fall, Enso Village aims to provide an exceptional dining experience for residents, their families, and the broader community. Evans, with a culinary journey spanning 30 years and notable roles at establishments like Cyrus and Acquerello, will lead the kitchen and culinary team, emphasizing sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. (Healdsburg Patch)

Shoutout to our premier local sponsors:

• Healdsburg gardeners and plant enthusiasts: Need help growing your garden? Thrive Hydroponics and Garden Supply is a family-owned, full service garden shop with over 15 years experience helping people care for their plants. Whether you’re a first-time grower or an experienced greenhouse gardener, they’ve got the right supplies and expert knowledge to help your garden flourish — including a variety of soils at the best prices. Visit them here and mention Patch for 30% off your order.

• Looking to buy or sell a luxury property in Sonoma County? Healdsburg’s Sotheby’s International Realty is a local firm with global reach that specializes in luxury real estate, vineyards, wineries and land in Sonoma County. Healdsburg's Sotheby's: local expertise, deep market knowledge, and a passion for the community. Whether buying or selling, it pays to work with the best. Call Healdsburg’s Sotheby’s at 707-433-4800.

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Today in Healdsburg:

Thursday, August 31

• Music In The Vines At Limerick Lane Cellars (5:00 PM)
• Trivia At Fogbelt Brewing Co. (6:00 PM)

From our partner:

Do you know an outstanding community leader in Healdsburg? Nominate them here for a chance to be featured on Patch!

From my notebook:

• After reaching record highs in 2022, nationwide rates of catalytic converter thefts appear to be on the decline for the first half of 2023. In California, catalytic converter thefts have decreased by 31.49 percent from 2022, though rates are still up over 1,970 percent from 2019. (BeenVerified)
• Sonoma County Library invites everyone to a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Storytime in the Park featuring a 'Special Guest' and the BiblioBike. The event will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Sep. 1 at Giorgi Park in Healdsburg. (Healdsburg Patch)
• SUTRO Wine Co. is hosting a Harvest Celebration event on Sep. 16 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Hoot Owl Vineyard Picnic Grounds in nearby Alexander Valley. The event promises an evening filled with wine, BBQ, and live music. SUTRO Wine Co. will also be offering samples of their Fall Releases, including the 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020 Merlot, and 2021 Pinot Noir. Tickets can be found here. (Healdsburg Chamber of Commerce via Facebook)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Thursday. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow morning with a new update!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.