Jonathan Farrell

San Francisco - After loosing his investments in Peruvian rice, Joshua Norton "proclaimed" himself "Emperor Norton of the United States." And, believe it or not the people of San Francisco accepted him and honored his title.

Sonoma - Singer Amanda King brought some jazz standards to a warm summer evening at the Plaza Bistro on the square in Sonoma on June 14. She had the dinner crowd that Friday evening singing along to familiar songs and to some unexpected.

Sonoma - It is troubling to hear about young lives being caught up in violence, drugs and situations of despair. Crime, suicide and addiction are often the outcomes which end an adolescent's life emotionally and economically, if not permanently.

San Francisco - San Francisco General is the City's hospital. In many ways it belongs to the people, to everyone. This is why it is crucial funds are available to meet the growing health care needs of thousands who often have no other place to go.

Alameda - No matter how much workout time is done and fitness level achieved or the strictest of diets adhered to we all crave a little bit of something sweet.

San Francisco - No doubt about it, local author Joseph Sutton is a San Francisco Giants fan. "The Years The Giants Won The Series: A Fan's Journal of the 2012 and 2010 World Series Season," is his second book on the subject.

Half Moon Bay - San Francisco singer Amanda King is excited to be bringing her music to Pasta Moon Restaurant's "Music Box at the Moon" in Half Moon Bay on June 1.

San Francisco - Andy's Excellent Chinese Cuisine has been preparing and serving Szechuan specialties like Kung Pao for decades. It's a familiar spot on the corner of Union and Polk.

San Francisco - People can be very attached to their doctors and health care providers, traveling some distance or going out of their way to keep their physician. And, it seems this is so even for their pets.

San Francisco - Polk Street for all its eclectic stimulation is always busy with people and activities. Yet, seldom has this reporter seen any artists with easel, canvas and color palate in hand painting on the street.

Sonoma - As the baby boomer generation ages, issues of long-term care are most likely going to be getting a lot more attention in the near future.

San Francisco - Thousands converged on the route of the annual 12 kilometer Bay to Breakers run which began at 7 AM at the Embarcadero and finished at the Great Highway at Ocean Beach.

San Francisco - The City Attorney's Office of San Francisco is pleased to announce that two of its staff members will be receiving awards this year. In a profession that requires long hours, dedicated service and unwavering commitment, receiving any honor,

San Francisco - The Gyros are a delight and at under $5 as take out, they are the best food bargain in town. Yet, even before I ate a fresh-made gyros at Myconos Greek Restaurant on Polk Street, I knew I had to enjoy a full sit-down dinner.

San Francisco - As the California Coastal Commission agreed on May 9, to allow plans for the soccer fields in Golden Gate Park to be renovated with artificial turf, this reporter got yet another perspective

San Francisco - It's accurate to say that the well-known beefeater doorman at the landmark Sir Francis Drake Hotel did not expect to become such an icon. Yet, this reporter wonders if he realizes that he is an icon and a legend within an iconic and legendary spot.

Sonoma - With the arrival of summer, ice cream is one of the first things people look for and all summer long ice cream shops like Michoacana Natural Ice Cream in Sonoma are busy.

San Francisco - Those who love the history of San Francisco will be enthralled by the new interactive map which details every district, street and area with interesting facts, notes and yes, trivia.

San Francisco - Despite efforts and hopes to keep the popular live entertainment venue open, the Rrazz Room is closed. Contrary to the San Francisco Examiner's report that the nightlife spot might return, official spokesman did clarify.

Sonoma - Walking along the main thoroughfare in Sonoma - appropriately named Broadway, not far from the town square is a row of shops, to this reporter's surprise and delight, a bead shop is among them.