Jose Luciano oversees the visitor centers operations in Sonoma Valley and knows where to eat and drink. He started his schooling at Purdue with plans of becoming a veterinarian, but took a detour into hospitality and a career with Marriott Hotels. In this edition of the Spiel he talks about the joys of fried Puerto Rican treats (alcapurrias), as well as where to eat in the Springs (Sante at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, Sonoma Eats, and Spread Catering to name a few.) Jose is also in charge of literally lighting the historic palm tree in front of Sonoma City Hall during the beloved "Lighting of the Sonoma Plaza" event each year. (The Saturday before Thanksgiving.) This year's acts include the Tri-County Pomo Dancers, Sonoma Conservatory of Dance, The El Verano School Singers, The Cork Pullers and the Soul Section. Plus - it's all free. And like all our guests, Jose takes on answering YOUR Sonoma questions. This week he answers: There is an awful smell emanating from underneath a tree in the northeast corner of the Plaza. What is it? Is this the Visitor Center? - received via text We are going to the redwoods tomorrow, but want some ideas on things to see along the way. Got any ideas? We heard that there is a bike path that runs along highway 101. What is it and how far can we ride? I work with a guy who will sometimes - out of nowhere- loudly exclaim Wepa! What on earth does that mean and should I be concerned? We Get Questions is brought to you by the Sonoma Plaza Tasting Pass: Save up to 25% off tasting fees and choose three great wineries around the historic Sonoma Plaza. Details at https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at
[email protected], text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers. It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF
