Froggy 92.9

Seventh Annual M.F.K. Fisher Emerging Writers Contest
2026-02-01 00:00 - 2026-05-25 23:59, 2026-02-03 00:00 - 2026-05-27 23:59, 2026-02-06 00:00 - 2026-05-30 23:59, 2026-02-10 00:00 - 2026-06-03 23:59, 2026-02-13 00:00 - 2026-06-06 23:59 (America/Los_Angeles) | CA
It’s hard to believe that this is our Seventh Annual M.F.K. Fisher Emerging Writers Contest! This time it’s being run under the auspices of the recently formed M.F.K.Fisher Foundation. We’ve had entries and winners from all over the world and from just down the road these past years. We’ve already begun receiving registrations and essays! Once again, we have a stellar panel of judges helping us.

The theme this year is Fire. Warming, illuminating, transforming. It evokes glow, destruction, passion and so much more.

Submissions begin: Submissions are currently being accepted (as of February 1, 2026).
Deadline for submissions: Monday, May 25, 2026 - 5 p.m. PST
Contest entry and details: mfkfisher.org/emerging-writers-contest
Format: Writers are invited to submit an original unpublished essay or short story (poetry not accepted) in PDF format, 300–500 words for children and youth, 750 words maximum for adults 18 and older. Please include your name, category, and essay title at the top of your submission.
Entries accepted in three age categories:
Adults 18 and older
Youth (13–17) (must have parent or legal guardian's consent (indicate on registration))
Children (8–12) (must have parent or legal guardian's consent (indicate on registration))
Entry Fees:

Adults: $50

Children and Youth: Thanks to a generous donation by a donor who wishes to remain anonymous, all entries for children and youth are free of charge.

Prizes include:

$250.00 awarded to the first place winner in each category
An additional $250.00 awarded to the grand prize winner
First, second and third place submissions (and their authors’ names) in each category will be published on the M.F.K. Fisher Foundation website.

Terms of entry:By entering the M.F.K. Fisher Emerging Writers Contest you agree that the M.F.K. Fisher Foundation may screen your submission through GPTZero (or a similar tool) and may use the results, at the Foundation’s sole discretion, to evaluate originality and eligibility. Entrants further agree to allow the M.F.K. Fisher Foundation to publish/reprint your essay and name. Employees/board members of the M.F.K. Fisher Foundation and immediate family members are exempted from entering.

Sausalito Center for the Arts hosts Marin Open Studios Showcase Gallery
2026-04-24 11:00 - 2026-05-10 17:00 | Sausalito Center for the Arts, 750 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, United States
The Sausalito Center for the Arts is proud to host the Marin Open Studios Showcase Gallery where 260 artists will have their work featured.

Start your open studio adventure with us to see artwork from each of the 260 participating artists in one place. Then visit your favorite artists in their studios, discover their spaces nearby, see artwork up close, and support local artists by directly purchasing work. Sculpture, abstract and figurative painting, ceramics and pottery, photography, mixed media, textiles, jewelry, watercolor, pastels, glass, drawing, wood, encaustics, digital media, and much more - there's something for everyone!

How to plan your self-guided tour:
Browse the Showcase Gallery to see the latest artwork from all the artists in one place.
Pick up a Tour Guide at SCA to plan your route.
The Showcase Gallery is open April 24 to May 10 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).

The Beat Goes On - A Journey of Hope following musician, Willard Blackwell
2026-04-30 00:00 - 23:59 | CA
“The Beat Goes On” is a journey of hope, following Zydeco musician Willard Blackwell’s life with ALS, while his friend connects with him with holistic healers, ALS reversal patients who regained their mobility, and a Harvard neurologist who invented an instrument that allowed Willard to play music with his mind.
Director’s Statement:
As director of The Beat Goes On, I began this documentary with one simple goal: to help my friend Willard Blackwell find hope after his ALS diagnosis. Music had always been central to his life with the Gator Beat and Gator Nation Band, so I set out to keep him connected to it. Our journey led us to Seattle to explore the encephalophone, a hands free instrument that allows Willard to play music with his mind. Along the way, we met ALS reversal patients whose stories expanded the film’s scope. I hope this documentary inspires newly diagnosed patients to seek options, hold onto hope, and support the fight for ALS research.
Trailers & Related Video Clips
#1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTbAIHsLQKg
#2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml53ZsQ8fs0&t=116s
#3 https://youtu.be/1izMC7gHXIU
ALS Fight Song– “Life is a Journey”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0S_cw7nPlY
Why I Made The Beat Goes On Documentary-Kathleen McCallum
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWpzt6SO_7k
Websites
http://thebeatgoeson-alsfilm.com
https://willardblackwellals.com/the-beat-goes-on-review/
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/WillardBlackwellALS/

Healdsburg Jazz Spring Jam Fundraiser
2026-05-01 17:00 - 21:30 | 3 North St, 3 North St, Healdsburg, CA, United States
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2026 Healdsburg Jazz Spring Jam Fundraiser Celebration—a dazzling night of music, community, and purpose at the brand-new Foley Family Community Pavilion! Music by Jazz Mafia Experience, a powerhouse 9-piece ensemble known for their electrifying Bay Area funk-jazz fusion will heat up the dance floor.

SugarShuttle: North Sonoma Mtn ↔ Jack London SHP
2026-05-02 08:00 - 11:30 | Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, CA, 95452, United States
The SugarShuttle is heading to North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Jack London State Historic Park! Shuttle also offered on Sunday, May 3.
How it works: Every half hour our Shuttle will leave from either North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park’s parking lot or Jack London State Historic Park’s upper parking lot or winery lot. Make a reservation and then ride to the other end of the trail, or hike and ride back. Riding first and hiking back to your car is the easiest way—no worries about how long you take to finish your hike. This 9-mile one-way hike should take 4 to 5 hours, including nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain. If you sign up for the 12:15 pm drop off at N. Sonoma Mtn, please note that the gate at Jack London SHP closes at 5:00 pm. Bring at least 64oz of water, sun protection, and if desired, a snack.
Registration is required as there is only space for 6 riders at a time, but you can ride on a space-available basis as well. There is no charge for the ride; the $10 reservation fee is refunded on site the day of the event, unless you choose to donate it to keep this service running. Dogs and bikes are not allowed in the shuttle or on Jack London’s trails (the State Park portion of the hiking route). Parking fees apply.

Knock-Your-Socks-Oﬀ Wildflower Walk at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
2026-05-02 09:30 - 12:30 | Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, CA, 95452, United States
The Goodspeed trail hosts a treasure trove of wildflowers. Here's a chance to join Certified CA Naturalist John Lynch for a leisurely exploration of this exceptionally lovely trail. You will not be sorry!

Goodspeed trail starts along the cool banks of the Sonoma Creek as it rushes through a stand of redwoods but quickly heads up hill into the sunlight and a profusion of wildflowers, butterflies (and a few reptiles). This hike will only take us a couple miles with the turn around just past Pierson Rd - but oh what a couple of miles!

Meet at the Goodspeed parking lot. Tickets are $10 for general audiences, $5 for students or youth (12-17 year olds), Sugarloaf members, Sugarloaf or RFO volunteers, and free for children under 12. Tickets day-of on site are $15 and might not be available. Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, bring at least a quart of water, a camera or wildflower guides if you have them, and if desired, a snack. Parking fees apply.

Sonoma County Farm Trails Spring Tour
2026-05-02 10:00 - 16:00 | CA
Join Sonoma County Farm Trails for our Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies Spring Farm Tour on May 2 & 3, 2026. This is a self-guided tour of Farm Trails member farms, ranches, and producers. Choose your own agrarian adventure with farm tours, farm animals, special tastings and workshops, farm stands, and more. All are welcome. Registration is FREE but required. Individual tour stops may require additional reservation or charge a fee. Full details will be provided via email.

Santa Rosa Reptile Expo
2026-05-02 10:00 - 2026-05-03 17:00 | Santa Rosa Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA, 95404, United States
Explore a huge selection of incredible animals including tarantulas, amphibians, snakes, chameleons, geckos, monitors, bearded dragons, jumping spiders, tortoises, turtles, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned keeper, a collector, or just curious about the reptile world, there is something for everyone.
Browse vendor booths offering a wide variety of bioactive supplies, feeders, plants, tanks and enclosures, cork bark, grapevine, dry goods, and reptile care products. Take advantage of exclusive expo-only deals while finding everything you need to create the perfect habitat for your animals.
The expo will also feature live animal shows, including appearances by amazing animals such as the Patagonian cavy mara and North American opossum, alligator & more!
Guests can also enjoy a hands-on terrarium building workshop. Watch and learn how to build a bioactive enclosure, or upgrade your experience and build your own terrarium to take home — perfect for your new pet.
Bring the whole family and experience one of Northern California’s most exciting reptile and exotic animal events.
Sonoma County Event Center at the Fairgrounds
1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Sat. 10AM-5PM
Sun. 10AM-4PM
Two-day passes and Family discounts packs also available online.
Get tickets, directions, more info at https://www.CVRExpo.com

Spirit Guides: Fantastical Creatures from the Workshop of Jacobo and María Ángeles
2026-05-02 10:30 - 11:30 | Sonoma Botanical Garden, 12841 HWY 12, Glen Ellen, CA, 95442, United States
Spirit Guides: Fantastical Creatures from the Workshop of Jacobo and María Ángeles features brightly colored, richly patterned sculptures depicting imaginary hybrid animals that serve as spirit guides and astrological embodiments of human character. Inspired by the Zapotec calendar, the exhibition includes eight large-scale works organized by Denver Botanic Gardens.
Join knowledgeable volunteer Garden Guides for special tours of Spirit Guides at Sonoma Botanical Garden on select Saturdays during the run of the exhibition. Experience the updated entrance to our California Oaks Trail and discover the vibrant, monumental sculptures by Jacobo and María Ángeles, hearing stories about the works’ cultural inspirations, symbolic meanings, and connections with the natural world. Our volunteers will enrich your visit with insights into the artists’ process, the Zapotec influences behind the spirit animals, and how the exhibition complements the surrounding landscape. These engaging English language tours offer context and conversation that deepen your appreciation of both the art and the Garden.
Saturday, May 2, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 9, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 16, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 30, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
$10 for members, $20 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center. To learn more and sign up, click “Register” and explore the “Info” tab on the registration page.

2nd Annual Bloody Mary Challenge
2026-05-02 11:00 - 13:00 | Grossman’s Noshery & Bar, 308 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, CA, United States
Mark your calendar. Bring your crew. Come thirsty.
Support your local heroes – one spicy sip at a time.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Hotel La Rose – Grossman’s, Santa Rosa, CA
Tickets: www.srff.org/BMC
Tickets: $35 – includes tastings from all competitors
If you like your Saturdays spicy, your cocktails bold, and your community strong – this event was made for you.
Join Charbay Distillery and the Santa Rosa Fire Department for a bloody delicious showdown: the 2nd Annual Bloody Mary Challenge, where top local restaurants battle it out for the title of Best Bloody Mary in Sonoma County.
You’ll sip, sample, and vote your way through a lineup of uniquely crafted Bloody Mary’s, each with its own twist—while supporting the firefighters who keep our community safe.
What to Expect:
• A Bloody Mary tasting adventure from some of the most creative bars & restaurants in the region
• A people’s choice vote – you decide who takes home the trophy
• A lively, social atmosphere in the heart of Santa Rosa
• Delicious brunch vibes from Grossman’s and the historic Hotel La Rose
• All proceeds support the Santa Rosa Fire Fighters Foundation, a local nonprofit that assists firefighters and their families in times of need
Featuring Bloody Mary’s From:
Bartenders Unlimited Bird & The Bottle
Fern Bar Goldfinch
Grossman’s Noshery & Bar Little Saint
Lo & Behold Bar & Kitchen Stark’s Steak & Seafood
The Madrona Healdsburg The Matheson
Waterhawk Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar

11th Annual Duckhorn Vineyards Derby Party and Discussion Release
2026-05-02 13:30 - 16:30 | The Duckhorn Collection at Paraduxx, 7257 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA, United States
This year, we’re bringing the festivities to a new setting at our sister property, The Duckhorn Collection at Paraduxx, where the legacy continues in a fresh new way.
Settle into the day with Southern-inspired bites from our new Culinary team led by Chef Dominic Orsini and our signature wines poured across our lounge, beneath the old oak tree, and beside the vines. From Duckhorn Vineyards to Goldeneye and beyond, experience the spirit of The Duckhorn Collection as our home becomes yours for an afternoon of food, wine, and celebration.
Tradition and excellence unite as we debut the 16th vintage of The Discussion Red Blend—a wine that embodies the ongoing dialogue of craftsmanship and connection in winemaking. Be among the first to savor the new 2022 vintage of this Bordeaux-inspired blend while reveling in the excitement of the 152nd Kentucky Derby!
No Derby celebration would be complete without our Best Dressed Competition, inviting guests to showcase their finest race-day style—from big hats and fascinators to sport coats and bow ties.
For those seeking a touch more elegance and ease, The Winner’s Circle offers relaxed comfort and curated service. Enjoy personalized wine selections and thoughtful pairings, with a dedicated host ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the action. From start to finish, it’s an effortless, unforgettable Duckhorn Derby Day.
*Derby-inspired attire suggested.
**Guests must be 21 and over to attend. No pets are allowed at this event.
***All ticket sales are non-refundable

Goodwill Connect! Open House - Santa Rosa
2026-05-05 13:00 - 17:00 | Goodwill Santa Rosa, 2007 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, CA, United States
Tuesday May 5th from 1-5pm!
Join us at our open houses for the launch of Goodwill Connect! — a new workforce development program that helps people build skills and move toward meaningful employment. Goodwill Connect! includes workshops, digital skills training and more. Learn how the program supports jobseekers for free with no eligibility requirements. Stop by our Open Houses on May 5th at 2007 Sebastopol Road in Santa Rosa between 1-5pm. Visit GIRE.ORG for more information.

Goodwill Connect! Open House - Rohnert Park
2026-05-08 13:00 - 17:00 | Goodwill Rohnert Park, 476 Rohnert Park Expressway, Rohnert Park, CA, United States
Friday May 8th! Join us at our open houses for the launch of Goodwill Connect! — a new workforce development program that helps people build skills and move toward meaningful employment. Goodwill Connect! includes workshops, digital skills training and more. Learn how the program supports jobseekers for free with no eligibility requirements. Stop by our Open House in Santa Rosa on May 8th at 476 Rohnert Park Expressway in Rohnert Park between 1-5pm. Visit GIRE.ORG for more information.

An Evening Dedicated to Early Cancer Prevention Hosted by the Jasper Family and Arnot-Roberts Winery
2026-05-08 18:00 - 20:00 | Arnot-Roberts Winery, 33 Healdsburg Ave, Unit 1, Healdsburg, CA, 95448, United States
Hosted at Arnot-Roberts Winery, this lively evening benefits Sutter Health’s Genetic Risk and Evaluation Testing (GREAT) Program, which provides no-cost hereditary cancer testing. As a valued member of our community, we are excited to offer complimentary genetic testing to every attendee, a powerful opportunity to better understand your health and take proactive steps for yourself and your family. And yes, this is where things get fun. Grab your boots, because Max Vogel & The Pickups will have you scootin’ around the dance floor while you enjoy an evening of great music, food, and community.
Event Highlights
• Complimentary Genetic Tests for all Attendees
• Live music by Max Vogel & The Pickups
• Local silent auction
• Health Expo
• Dino’s Greek Food Truck
Come for the cause, stay for the celebration, and leave with something that truly matters.

Shrek Jr. Brings Big Laughs and Bigger Heart to Santa Rosa Stage
2026-05-08 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-09 20:30 - 21:30, 2026-05-09 23:00 - 2026-05-10 00:00, 2026-05-10 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-15 23:00 - 2026-05-16 00:00, 2026-05-16 20:30 - 21:30 | Kid Street Charter School, 709 Davis St, Santa Rosa, CA, 95401, United States
Get ready for ogre-sized fun as Shrek Jr. takes the stage this May at Kid Street Charter School Theater. This lively, family-friendly musical brings everyone’s favorite green ogre to life in a colorful production full of humor, heart, and high-energy performances.

Based on the beloved story, Shrek Jr. follows Shrek on an unexpected adventure with fairy tale misfits, unlikely friendships, and a powerful message that true beauty comes from within. With catchy songs, playful comedy, and meaningful lessons about acceptance and belonging, the show is designed to entertain audiences of all ages, especially young children and their families.
Directed by Charlie Bird, this production showcases the talent and enthusiasm of young performers, creating a joyful theater experience that is both inspiring and entertaining.

Performance Dates:
May 8 through 10 and May 15 through 17

Fridays: 7pm

Saturdays: 4:30 and 7pm

Sundays: 3pm

Location:
Kid Street Charter School Theater
709 Davis St.
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Tickets:
Only $7 each – www.ATheaterForChildren.com
Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy an affordable, high-quality live theater experience that celebrates creativity, confidence, and community.

A Theater for Children
A theater for children provides a creative space where young performers can explore their imagination, build confidence, and learn the joy of storytelling. Through teamwork and hands-on experience, kids bring stories to life on stage while making lasting memories.

Festival Napa Valley presents MusicTime in the Library with Katrina Walter
2026-05-09 00:15 - 01:15 | St. Helena Library, 1492 Library Lane, St. Helena, CA, 94574, United States
Festival Napa Valley presents MusicTime in the Library at the St. Helena Library. Experience The Sounds of Nature with flutist Katrina Walter. Arrive ready to Iisten and move to music that is new and familiar. This performance is free and open to the public. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The 2026 Charity Classic benefitting the Family Justice Center of Sonoma County
2026-05-15 19:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-16 11:00 - 23:00 | Santa Rosa Golf & Country Club, 333 Country Club Dr, Santa Rosa, CA, 95401, United States
Join us for two unforgettable days of fun, community, and giving back! Kick things off Friday, May 15, with live music from Dry Creek Station, 2025 Country Summer openers. On Saturday, May 16, compete in our morning Pickleball Tournament and/or afternoon Golf tournament, then celebrate at our Gala Dinner & Auction beginning at 6 p.m.
Event Dates: Friday, May 15th – Saturday, May 16th

Friday: Dry Creek Station LIVE at 7PM

Saturday: Pickleball, Golf & Gala. 7AM Pickleball / 1PM Golf

Location: Santa Rosa Golf & Country Club

Wilderness First Aid Course at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
2026-05-16 08:30 - 2026-05-17 17:00 | Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, CA, 95452, United States
Gain the confidence and the skills to handle a first aid emergency. Lead by Safety Training Pros, classes are fun with lots of hands-on skills practice. The emphasis is on making good decisions by staying calm and safe, doing a good patient assessment, and having good communication and leadership.
Join our classes, where it is safe to learn and OK to make mistakes. Wilderness First Aid is 16 hours (two 8-hour days) and focuses on practicing skills and covering patient assessment, shock and bleeding, head and spinal injuries, wounds, musculoskeletal injuries, and heat and cold illnesses. It also includes a half-day of outdoor scenario practice of first aid and leadership skills.
Gain the tools and knowledge to handle a wilderness first aid emergency. Registration includes day use fee and class materials. Successful completion of the class includes a Wilderness First Aid certificate.
The instructor will additionally offer a one-hour CPR/AED course immediately after the Wilderness First Aid course. The course will focus on both adults and children and comes with a 2-year certification.
The group camp will be available for those who wish to camp on Saturday and Sunday night at no additional cost. Please reach out to alma@sonomaecologycenter.org if you plan on taking advantage of this opportunity.

Sonoma County Matsuri Festival
2026-05-17 11:00 - 17:00 | Juilliard Park, ​227 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa, CA, United States
Enjoy a vibrant celebration of Japanese arts and culture at Juilliard Park in Santa Rosa.
Experience live demonstrations of taiko drumming, folk dance and music, martial arts, and traditional mochi pounding throughout the day.
This year’s special feature is Sumo demonstration by Honu Sumo from San Diego.
Explore cultural exhibits, art, clothing, authentic cuisine, a Japanese language booth, origami, and hands-on activities for kids.
Free admission and fun for all ages!
