Facebook group warns Napa Valley commuters of traffic tie-ups + Sounds of summer
Facebook group warns Napa Valley commuters of traffic tie-ups + Sounds of summer
By Dave Stoneberg
Tim Carl: We welcome Dave Stoneberg to the team. Stoneberg is not only a seasoned journalist and respected figure in the community, but he is also a longtime friend, mentor and motivational speaker to me personally. When I approached him 10 years ago to pitch a column idea for the Star, he looked at me, smiled, and said, "Well, let's give it a shot."
For 14 years Stoneberg served as the editor of the award-winning St. Helena Star, captivating readers with insightful reporting and engaging storytelling. With a rich background in journalism, including notable positions at various publications, Stoneberg's commitment to delivering accurate news and his dedication to community journalism are inspiring. His ability to connect with readers, uplift local voices and shed light on important issues has earned him widespread admiration.
Today we are privileged to present two pieces by Stoneberg that showcase the depth and breadth of his journalistic eye and acumen. The first piece explores a captivating community that has emerged to tackle the challenges of traffic congestion to and from the Napa Valley. Through Stoneberg's keen observations and insightful reporting, he sheds light on the innovative solutions and the spirit of collaboration that drives this community's efforts.
In the second piece, Stoneberg takes us on a heartfelt journey into his own childhood, offering a poignant remembrance. With his masterful storytelling, he invites us into the depths of his past, painting a vivid picture of the experiences and emotions that have shaped him. Through his introspection and lyrical prose, Stoneberg reveals the vulnerability and authenticity that lies at the core of his writing.
Facebook group warns Napa Valley commuters of traffic tie-ups
By Dave Stoneberg
Snow fell in Hidden Valley Lake, Lake County, three times this past winter — on Monday, Jan. 2; Friday, Feb. 24; and Monday, March 6. It was just a light dusting of snow the first and third times, but wild weather made that Friday in February a real doozy.
According to our home rain gauge, that day 1.17 inches of rain and snow fell in 24 hours. The heavy, wet snow broke branches on trees, and the wind howled, breaking even more. The severe weather closed the two main roadways out of southern Lake County, Highway 29 over Mount St. Helena and Howell Mountain Road to Angwin.
“It was like 4:30 in the morning and my Caltrans guy calls me and he’s like, ‘I’m really sorry I’m calling you so early, but the road is going to be closed for at least a couple of days,’” said HVL resident Judy Wink. “Then I heard him pause, and then I heard him go, ‘Oh!’ I asked him if he was OK, and he said another tree came down right here (next to him.) He added, ‘We have over 100 trees to clear before we can get that road open.’”