We have officially hit the final stretch of a very long election cycle. Now living in a “swing state,” we have been inundated with ads in every capacity possible. I never thought I would look forward to car and furniture ads over political ones. As a former television executive, the political season was always financially profitable for the stations as politicians pay top dollar for ads to spout their latest statement, belief, or attack. One thing they do not do, however, is write the news (for the most part.)  I am talking about authentic, well-researched news that is reported by journalists with integrity and journalistic values.

As a self-proclaimed news junkie who has traveled the world and absorbs my news from a variety of outlets, I understand the importance of having authenticity, truthfulness, and reality in our journalism; as such, it makes supporting others who are determined to report the news to their best ability that much more critical. Journalism has changed drastically over the years, so having outlets that still hold themselves to the standards established by our historic news leaders is more vital to our democracy today than ever.

Sonoma’s Benovia Winery also believes this, and for this election cycle, it has crafted an exceptional wine, Benovia Good Press Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley. The winery is working with The Press Democrat Journalism Trust in Sonoma to support sustainable local journalism by donating proceeds from the sale of Good Press Pinot Noir to help provide journalism scholarships, student training with traditional journalistic standards, and reporting resources in Sonoma and Napa counties, and California’s North Bay. This donation includes $20 for every $49 bottle from the winery. Additionally, The Anderson Family Foundation and the Green Foundation will each add $20 to the donation, for a total of $60 per bottle. The total is an impressive donation for a $49 bottle. Now more than ever, keeping solid journalism with solid reporting ethics is necessary. We are grateful to see Benovia giving to such an important cause in such an important time. #Cheers, and remember to vote on November 5, as every vote counts!