🏠 Homebuyer Certification Workshop | 📚 Reading Is Better When It’s Shared

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Employment opportunities! We are hiring! The City of Santa Rosa is currently hiring for multiple positions across many departments! Come join us and make a difference in a culturally diverse, family-focused city in the heart of Sonoma County. For jobs below with the City of Santa Rosa, complete details, minimum qualifications, benefits, to apply online and see other current job opportunities click here.

Quality Control Associate - Materials Engineering Lab - Join a knowledgeable and motivated team who take pride in doing quality work! $104,727.00 - $127,422.00 Annually. Apply by 1/25/26

Administrative Secretary - The current vacancy supports the Finance Dept. $71,324.00 - $86,499.00 Annually Apply by 1/26/26

Maintenance Worker - We have openings in our Water, Parks, Facilities, and Streets Departments. $58,593.60 - $69,472.00 Annually Apply by 1/29/26

County of Sonoma, join our team! Complete details, minimum qualifications, benefits. Apply here or phone HR at 707-565-2331.

Bilingual Public Health Nurse I and II - (English/Spanish) - Be part of vital public health efforts to protect and promote maternal and children's health in our community! $10,014 - $12,745/Monthly* Salary is negotiable within the established range. Apply Now

Are you passionate about the library and looking for the next step in your career? We have amazing opportunities at Sonoma County Library! Sonoma County Library is committed to diversity and inclusion in the recruiting and hiring of staff. For more information on careers with Sonoma County Library, please visit our Careers page.

Advertising inquiries | Anúnciate con nosotros

Taller de Certificación para Comprar Vivienda en Español
Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California invita a la comunidad a participar en un taller virtual de certificación para compradores de vivienda, que se realizará el 28 y 29 de enero de 2026 por Zoom. Durante dos noches, los participantes aprenderán sobre el proceso de compra, manejo del crédito, costos, préstamos y programas de asistencia para el pago inicial. Quienes cumplan los requisitos podrán obtener un certificado de HUD.

Homebuyer Certification Workshop in Spanish
Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California invites residents to join a virtual homebuyer certification workshop on January 28–29, 2026. The two-night Zoom workshop covers the homebuying process, credit, costs, loans, and down payment assistance programs. Participants who meet all requirements may earn a HUD certificate.

Reading Is Better When It’s Shared
Sonoma County Library invites readers of all kinds to connect through its 20+ free book clubs across the county. Whether you’re looking for thoughtful conversation, new reading ideas, or simply time to enjoy books, there’s a group for you. Join a club at a nearby library or participate online, and explore genres ranging from mysteries and cookbooks to nonfiction and #OwnVoices titles. Find meeting times, reading lists, and registration details on the Library’s Events Calendar.

Es Mejor Compartir la Lectura
La Biblioteca del Condado de Sonoma invita a la comunidad a unirse a más de 20 clubes de lectura gratuitos. Hay opciones presenciales y en línea, con grupos por ubicación, género o tema, desde misterio hasta no ficción y títulos #OwnVoices. Consulta horarios, lecturas y detalles de inscripción en el Calendario de Eventos.

Valentine’s Gingerbread Houses for Teens
Teens are invited to get creative building Valentine’s Day gingerbread houses with festive candy, icing, and sweet decorations. All materials are provided. The hands-on activity takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at Central Santa Rosa Library. Advance registration is required and space is limited.

Casitas de Jengibre de San Valentín para Jóvenes
Jóvenes podrán crear casitas de jengibre con temática de San Valentín usando dulces, glaseado y decoraciones festivas. Todos los materiales están incluidos. La actividad se realizará el miércoles 28 de enero de 2026, de 4:30 a 6:00 p.m. en la Biblioteca Central de Santa Rosa. Se requiere inscripción previa y los cupos son limitados.

WHAT'S HAPPENING SONOMA?
Find out what activities and events will be happening in Sonoma during the week.

Medieval Martial Arts: Sword Fighting
Teens can explore the history of medieval sword fighting and the armor used in battle. The program features a live demonstration with steel swords, followed by a hands-on foam sword fighting experience. Designed for students in grades 7–12, this interactive event blends history, movement, and fun. Held at three library locations: Central Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, and Guerneville.

Artes Marciales Medievales: Combate con Espadas
Jóvenes podrán conocer la historia del combate con espadas y la armadura medieval. El programa incluye una demostración en vivo con espadas de acero y una práctica segura con espadas de espuma. Dirigido a estudiantes de 7.º a 12.º grado, se realizará en las bibliotecas de Central Santa Rosa, Healdsburg y Guerneville.

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Humane Society of Sonoma County
We believe that the best place for pets is with families that love them. If you want to adopt your new four-legged best friend, come visit us! We have a Community Veterinary Clinic that provides compassionate medical care to the pets of low-income residents. We also offer low-cost spay and neuter services. For more information, please visit us.

Humane Society of Sonoma County (Español)
Creemos que el mejor lugar para las mascotas es con las familias que las aman. Si estás buscando adoptar a tu nuevo mejor amigo de cuatro patas, ¡visítanos! Además, contamos con una clínica veterinaria comunitaria que brinda atención médica compasiva a las mascotas de personas de bajos ingresos. También ofrecemos servicios de esterilización y castración a bajo costo. Si quieres más información, visita nuestra web.

Problem with Drugs or Alcohol?
Maybe Narcotics Anonymous can help. Come to Group: NA Never Alone Every Wednesday 6:30-7:30PM. It’s free! Address: Palms Inn, 3345 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa.

¿Problema con las Drogas o Alcohol?
En Narcóticos Anónimos quizás te podamos ayudar. Únase al grupo: NA Nunca Solos, es completamente gratuito. Las sesiones se llevan a cabo cada miércoles 6:30-7:30PM. Dirección: Palms Inn, 3345 Santa Rosa Ave.

Family Justice Center
If you are a victim of abuse, you are not alone. We offer free services available to you including assistance with restraining orders, immigration services, linkage to social services, safety planning, access to a safe home and more. Visit our web for more information.

Centro de justicia para la familia
Si eres víctima de abuso, no estás solo. Nosotros te ofrecemos servicios gratuitos disponibles entre los que se encuentran: asistencia para órdenes de restricción, servicios de inmigración, conexión a servicios sociales, planificación para su seguridad, acceso a un hogar seguro y más. Visítanos nuestra web dando clic aquí.

Marin County Helpful Services for older Latinos
We serve Latinos 60 and older who are isolated or facing challenges accessing free services & resources. Get expert assistance applying for Medi-Cal, CalFresh, In-Home Services, cash assistance for immigrants, meals, and referrals to other support services. For help, call (415) 473-2896.

Condado de Marin ofrece servicios de ayuda para latinos de la tercera edad
Servimos a latinos de 60 años o más que están aislados o enfrentan dificultades para acceso a servicios y recursos gratuitos. Obtenga ayuda experta para solicitar Medi-Cal, CalFresh, Servicios de Apoyo en el Hogar, asistencia en efectivo para inmigrantes, comidas y referencias a otros servicios de apoyo. Para ayuda, llame al (415) 473-2896.

Marin County Victim Services Division
Our trauma-informed advocates can inform you of your rights, offer support and connect you to local resources to help you begin the healing process. For more info click here.

División de servicios para víctimas del condado de Marín
Nuestros defensores informados sobre el trauma pueden bridarle información sobre sus derechos, ofrecerle apoyo y ponerlo en contacto con recursos locales para que usted comience su proceso de sanación. Más información aquí.

Sonoma County Victim Services
We can help victims of Sexual Assault, Teen Dating Violence and Human Trafficking. Love is more than just the way you feel. Love is respect.

Servicio para víctimas de Sonoma County
Podemos ayudar a víctimas de abuso sexual, violencia entre noviazgo en adolescentes y trata de personas. El amor es más que un sentimiento, es respeto.

Marin/Sonoma Mosquito & Vector Control District
Yes, we offer free services like Mosquito control, Mosquitofish, Yellowjackets and Roden Advice and Inspections. Call us at 707-285-220 or visit https://www.msmosquito.org/.

Control de mosquitos y vectores en Marín y Sonoma
Sí, ofrecemos servicios gratuitos como control de plagas de mosquitos, avispas y asesoramientos e inspecciones contra los roedores. Llámenos al 707-285-220 o visite https://www.msmosquito.org/.

Follow us! Síguenos!

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Newsletter

Advertising inquiries | Anúnciate con nosotros

Employment opportunities! We are hiring! The City of Santa Rosa is currently hiring for multiple positions across many departments! Come join us and make a difference in a culturally diverse, family-focused city in the heart of Sonoma County. For jobs below with the City of Santa Rosa, complete details, minimum qualifications, benefits, to apply online and see other current job opportunities click here.

Wastewater Treatment Superintendent - Join a knowledgeable and motivated team who take pride in doing quality work! $140,167.90 - $172,034.00 Annually. Apply by 1/22/26

Quality Control Associate - Materials Engineering Lab - Join a knowledgeable and motivated team who take pride in doing quality work! $104,727.00 - $127,422.00 Annually. Apply by 1/25/26

Administrative Secretary - The current vacancy supports the Finance Dept. $71,324.00 - $86,499.00 Annually Apply by 1/26/26

Maintenance Worker - We have openings in our Water, Parks, Facilities, and Streets Departments. $58,593.60 - $69,472.00 Annually Apply by 1/29/26

County of Sonoma, join our team! Complete details, minimum qualifications, benefits. Apply here or phone HR at 707-565-2331.

Public Health Laboratory Technician I and II - Advance your public health career by becoming a laboratory technician and helping to promote a healthy community! $5,005 - $6,687/Monthly* Salary is negotiable within the established range. Apply by 1/19/26

Bilingual Public Health Nurse I and II - (English/Spanish) - Be part of vital public health efforts to protect and promote maternal and children's health in our community! $10,014 - $12,745/Monthly* Salary is negotiable within the established range. Apply Now

Policy Analyst I-III - The Sonoma County Executive's Office is seeking a talented, analytical individual to join their team! $8,164 - $12,440/Monthly* Salary is negotiable within the established range. Apply by 1/20/26

Are you passionate about the library and looking for the next step in your career? We have amazing opportunities at Sonoma County Library! Sonoma County Library is committed to diversity and inclusion in the recruiting and hiring of staff. For more information on careers with Sonoma County Library, please visit our Careers page.

Advertising inquiries | Anúnciate con nosotros

Last Chance to Share Your Voice
With fewer than five days left, Sonoma County Library invites residents to complete its community survey before Jan. 18. Responses will help shape the Library’s 5-year Strategic Plan, guiding decisions on digital resources, youth programs, and community spaces. Residents can also join in-person or virtual meetings to share feedback.

Última Oportunidad para Participar
Con menos de cinco días restantes, la Biblioteca del Condado de Sonoma invita a la comunidad a completar la encuesta antes del 18 de enero. Las respuestas ayudarán a definir el Plan Estratégico a 5 años, incluyendo recursos digitales, programas juveniles y espacios comunitarios. También hay reuniones presenciales y virtuales disponibles.

Loba Poetry Series Brings Monthly Open Mic
Ukiah Branch Library hosts the Loba Poetry Series on the third Saturday of each month at 3 p.m., a free, in-person event for teens and adults to share poems or listen. On January 17, 2026, the series features Sonoma County Poet Laureate Dave Seter (2024–2026), an award-winning poet and essayist whose work explores social and environmental themes. For details, call 707-463-4490 or email [email protected].

Serie Loba de Poesía con Micrófono Abierto
La Biblioteca de Ukiah presenta la Serie de Poesía Loba el tercer sábado de cada mes a las 3 p.m., un evento gratuito y presencial para adolescentes y adultos. El 17 de enero de 2026 participará Dave Seter, Poeta Laureado del Condado de Sonoma (2024–2026), reconocido por su obra sobre temas sociales y ambientales. Más información al 707-463-4490 o [email protected].

Fire Preparedness Workshop With Cal Fire
Adults are invited to a free wildfire preparedness workshop at the Ukiah Branch Library on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Hosted in partnership with Cal Fire, the event focuses on urban wildfires and practical steps residents can take to protect their homes and communities.
Participants will learn home hardening practices, basic wildfire science, and readiness tips to reduce risk before fire season. The program is open to adults and free of charge. For more information, visit www.mendolibrary.org or call 707-463-4490.

Preparación Contra Incendios con Cal Fire
Adultos están invitados a un taller gratuito de preparación contra incendios forestales en la Biblioteca de Ukiah el sábado 10 de enero de 2026 a las 2:00 p.m., en colaboración con Cal Fire. El enfoque será en incendios urbanos y la prevención en el hogar.
Las personas asistentes aprenderán sobre prácticas de protección del hogar, ciencia básica del fuego y cómo prepararse antes de la temporada de incendios. El evento es gratuito y para adultos. Más información en www.mendolibrary.org o al 707-463-4490.

Valentine’s Gingerbread Houses for Teens
Teens are invited to get creative building Valentine’s Day gingerbread houses with festive candy, icing, and sweet decorations. All materials are provided. The hands-on activity takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at Central Santa Rosa Library. Advance registration is required and space is limited.

Casitas de Jengibre de San Valentín para Jóvenes
Jóvenes podrán crear casitas de jengibre con temática de San Valentín usando dulces, glaseado y decoraciones festivas. Todos los materiales están incluidos. La actividad se realizará el miércoles 28 de enero de 2026, de 4:30 a 6:00 p.m. en la Biblioteca Central de Santa Rosa. Se requiere inscripción previa y los cupos son limitados.

Explore STEAM at Your Library
Kids can dive into science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on build clubs, robotics programming, and creative science projects. These interactive STEAM events are designed for students in grades K–6 and encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity in a fun, supportive environment. Programs are offered at eight library locations across Sonoma County: Petaluma, Central Santa Rosa, Sonoma Valley, Rohnert Park Cotati, Healdsburg, Cloverdale, Roseland, and Windsor.

Explora STEAM en tu Biblioteca
Niñas y niños podrán descubrir ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería, arte y matemáticas con clubes de construcción, robótica y proyectos científicos creativos. Las actividades están dirigidas a estudiantes de K–6 y fomentan la curiosidad y el aprendizaje práctico. Se realizan en ocho bibliotecas del condado: Petaluma, Santa Rosa Central, Sonoma Valley, Rohnert Park Cotati, Healdsburg, Cloverdale, Roseland y Windsor.

WHAT'S HAPPENING SONOMA?
Find out what activities and events will be happening in Sonoma during the week.

Medieval Martial Arts: Sword Fighting
Teens can explore the history of medieval sword fighting and the armor used in battle. The program features a live demonstration with steel swords, followed by a hands-on foam sword fighting experience. Designed for students in grades 7–12, this interactive event blends history, movement, and fun. Held at three library locations: Central Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, and Guerneville.

Artes Marciales Medievales: Combate con Espadas
Jóvenes podrán conocer la historia del combate con espadas y la armadura medieval. El programa incluye una demostración en vivo con espadas de acero y una práctica segura con espadas de espuma. Dirigido a estudiantes de 7.º a 12.º grado, se realizará en las bibliotecas de Central Santa Rosa, Healdsburg y Guerneville.

CalHFA Appoints Katherine McFadden as Director of Multifamily Programs
The California Housing Finance Agency Board has appointed Katherine McFadden as Director of Multifamily Programs as the agency looks to expand its affordable housing financing. McFadden brings more than 30 years of experience in housing development and finance, most recently serving as Vice President for Northern California at Jamboree Housing Corporation. Her appointment comes as CalHFA has provided $3.4 billion in financing over the past two fiscal years, reinforcing its role in expanding affordable housing statewide.

CalHFA nombra a Katherine McFadden directora de Programas Multifamiliares
La Junta de la Agencia de Financiamiento de Vivienda de California designó a Katherine McFadden como directora de Programas Multifamiliares, en un momento clave para ampliar el financiamiento de vivienda asequible. McFadden cuenta con más de 30 años de experiencia en desarrollo y financiamiento de vivienda, y recientemente fue vicepresidenta en Jamboree Housing Corporation. Su nombramiento coincide con un periodo en el que CalHFA ha otorgado $3.4 mil millones en financiamiento durante los últimos dos años fiscales.

California Expands Energy Rebates, Boosts Grid Reliability
New California laws taking effect in 2026 aim to lower utility bills and strengthen the power grid. The state will return about $3 billion annually to ratepayers through Climate Credits, while joining a Western energy market could save $1 billion a year and improve reliability. The package also supports fuel price stability, clean power expansion, and major investments in housing, transit, wildfire prevention, and clean air. Lawmakers project 287,000 jobs and $55 billion in economic growth through 2045.

California amplía reembolsos energéticos y refuerza la red
Nuevas leyes en California, vigentes desde 2026, buscan reducir las facturas de servicios y fortalecer la red eléctrica. El estado devolverá cerca de $3 mil millones al año a los usuarios mediante créditos climáticos, y un mercado energético regional podría ahorrar $1 mil millones anuales y mejorar la confiabilidad. El paquete impulsa energía limpia, estabilidad en precios de combustible e inversiones en vivienda, transporte y prevención de incendios, con 287,000 empleos proyectados hasta 2045.

Plans Approved for Residential Care Facility in Strawberry
Marin County approved a five-story residential care facility for older adults in unincorporated Strawberry after completing a ministerial review confirming compliance with county code. The 6.6-acre project will include assisted living and memory care, with 71 apartments, 35 care suites, and underground parking. Approved without public hearings under state housing law, the development addresses Marin’s growing senior population, where 30% of residents are over 60, amid high housing costs and limited senior care options.

Aprueban centro residencial para adultos mayores en Strawberry
El condado de Marin aprobó un centro residencial de cinco pisos para adultos mayores en Strawberry tras una revisión ministerial que confirmó su cumplimiento normativo. El proyecto, en un terreno de 6.6 acres, incluirá vivienda asistida y cuidado de la memoria, con 71 departamentos, 35 suites y estacionamiento subterráneo. Autorizado sin audiencias públicas según la ley estatal, responde a la creciente población mayor del condado, donde el 30% tiene más de 60 años y enfrenta altos costos y escasez de servicios.

Program Targets Financial Abuse of Marin Seniors
A new Marin County pilot program aims to stop financial fraud against older adults by empowering bank tellers and police to act when suspicious withdrawals occur. The District Attorney’s Office partnered with Bank of Marin, WestAmerica Bank, San Rafael Police, and HHS to distribute alert cards prompting customers to pause and seek help. Fraud is rising, with 1 in 5 older adults affected nationwide and losses topping $28.3 billion annually. Officials hope early intervention will prevent devastating losses, especially as 35% of Marin residents will be 60+ by 2030.

Programa frena abuso financiero a adultos mayores
Un programa piloto en el condado de Marin busca prevenir fraudes contra adultos mayores al involucrar a cajeros bancarios y policía ante retiros sospechosos. La Fiscalía colabora con Bank of Marin, WestAmerica Bank, la Policía de San Rafael y HHS, usando tarjetas de alerta para que los clientes reflexionen antes de entregar dinero. El fraude crece: 1 de cada 5 adultos mayores es víctima y las pérdidas superan $28.3 mil millones al año. La meta es evitar daños graves, en un condado donde 35% tendrá 60+ en 2030.

Festive Recycling Tips for a Greener Season
A simple recycling checklist can help families celebrate the holidays with less waste. Plan meals carefully, reuse bags and containers, choose digital or reusable gifts, and recycle paper, plastics, and bottles correctly. Avoid single-use items, rinse containers before recycling, and donate usable decorations after the festivities. Small actions before, during, and after celebrations can reduce waste and help keep California clean throughout the holiday season.

Consejos de reciclaje para unas fiestas más sostenibles
Una lista básica de reciclaje ayuda a disfrutar las fiestas con menos desperdicios. Planifica comidas, reutiliza bolsas y envases, elige regalos digitales o reutilizables y recicla papel, plásticos y botellas de forma correcta. Evita productos de un solo uso, enjuaga los envases antes de reciclar y dona decoraciones que aún sirvan. Pequeños cambios antes, durante y después de las celebraciones reducen residuos y cuidan el medio ambiente.

Library Seeks Adult Literacy Volunteer Tutors
Sonoma County Library is seeking volunteer tutors to help adults improve English, reading, and writing skills in Sonoma Valley, Santa Rosa, and Windsor. No teaching experience is required; tutors receive free training and materials. A new tutor orientation will be held January 8, 2026, 9:00–10:30 a.m., via Zoom. Volunteers commit 2–3 hours weekly to support learners reaching everyday goals, from writing emails to reading with family.

Biblioteca busca tutores voluntarios de alfabetización
La Biblioteca del Condado de Sonoma busca tutores voluntarios para apoyar a adultos que desean mejorar su inglés, lectura y escritura en Sonoma Valley, Santa Rosa y Windsor. No se requiere experiencia docente; se ofrece capacitación y materiales gratuitos. La orientación será el 8 de enero de 2026, de 9:00 a 10:30 a.m., por Zoom. El compromiso es de 2 a 3 horas semanales para ayudar a la comunidad a alcanzar metas cotidianas.

California Advances Major Affordable Housing Reforms
California approved landmark housing laws in 2025 to speed up construction and lower costs. Backed by Assembly Democrats, the measures streamline environmental reviews, cut red tape and freeze new residential building standards through 2031. Key laws include AB 253, which accelerates approvals using third-party plan checks; AB 301, enforcing deadlines for state agencies; and AB 462, expanding accessory dwelling units in high-cost coastal areas. Together, the reforms aim to boost housing near jobs and transit and improve affordability for working- and middle-class families.

California impulsa reformas clave de vivienda asequible
California aprobó leyes históricas de vivienda en 2025 para acelerar la construcción y reducir costos. Impulsadas por la Asamblea, las normas simplifican revisiones ambientales, reducen la burocracia y congelan nuevos estándares de construcción hasta 2031. Destacan la AB 253, que agiliza aprobaciones; la AB 301, que fija plazos a agencias estatales; y la AB 462, que amplía las ADU en zonas costeras de alto costo. El paquete busca más viviendas cerca de empleos y transporte y mayor acceso para familias trabajadoras y de clase media.