Three certified Californian naturalists—all Oakmonters—shared their considerable expertise at a well-attended Town Hall Nov. 1 on how to balance habitat and fire protection practices in gardens and yards and support wildlife. “We think we can have home landscapes that are fire wise, aestheticallypleasing and provide a vital habitat for native plants and wildlife,” said Carolyn Greene in opening the panel.
In October, over 250 Oakmont residents participated in a 3-week sprint to generate “blue sky” ideas for Oakmont’s future. Ten working groups met numerous times and held spirited conversations about the 10 themes that came out of Oakmont 2030: Space, Gathering Places, Maintenance and Modernization, Life Safety, Aging and Diversity, Communications, Environment, Sub-HOAs, and Finance.
“The Working Group model was designed to promote divergent thinking,” says Co-chair Tom Kendrick. “In this process all ideas were welcome. We wanted to encourage as many new ideas as possible, striving for quantity over quality, even including ideas that conflict with other ideas.”
A Working Group Orientation was held on Oct. 14, and a mid-course Progress Report meeting on October 24. On Nov. 4, representatives of the Working Groups met in the Berger to present the hundreds of ideas that emerged from their efforts.
On Nov. 7, the Oakmont 2030 Steering Committee met to begin organizing the ideas into four categories: Short-Term, Do-Able Opportunities: Will be passed along to the OVA. These are possible to do soon, and need little due diligence.
This
The ongoing drought presents additional challenges, according to Greene, as well as the loss of 3 billion birds since 1970 in North America and a 68% decline in animal species. “We can save the species, but we have to change the way we landscape to do it,” she stressed. Plant choice also matters in Greene’s view. She identified several growing in Oakmont among 6,500 native plant species. They included yarrow, wild rose, Redwood lily, spice bush and native blackberry.
The most important factor to soil plant health and garden success is mulch, according to Lesli Lee Hartsough. She reminded the Town Hall audience that mulch nourishes microorganisms, retains moisture, moderates temperature, reduces weeds and improves drainage.
Wood mulches in the five-to-30-foot zone should be used with knowledge and care, Hartsough cautioned, adding larger bark is less flammable. Black or dyed mulch is not recommended. Mulch should be kept 12 to 24 inches away from wood fences. “Mulch provides places for insects to nest and other animals to forage,” she said, adding her favorite is compost.
The third panelist, Marie Kay Hansen, reminded attendees that sprinklers use a gallon of water per hour. She took advantage of Santa Rosa’s cash for
Short-Term, Not Yet Actionable Opportunities: Require more study and due diligence before action. Long-Term, Lower-Investment Opportunities: Do not require the Board Project Oversight Process, but nonetheless require more study, due diligence and input from community, experts, other stakeholders.
Long-Term Higher-Investment Opportunities: Require Board Project Oversight Process, and would involve significant investment, planning, and further community input.
All the ideas generated, regardless of category, will be reported to the board and retained for future consideration.
Parallel to the working groups, a small group of residents has been working to establish the criteria that will be used to assess and prioritize the ideas. An example of the criteria that might be used is whether an idea has a large base of community support.
On Nov. 16, the working groups will meet to review the criteria and the initial sorting and organizing of the ideas. Facilitators and themers from Oakmont Today and Oakmont Tomorrow will participate to ensure that the ideas align with what they heard during the community conversations.
On Dec. 12 a Town Hall will be held at the Berger Center from 1–4 p.m., to seek input from Oakmont
Oakmont will hold the 6th Annual Turkey Drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19 in the Berger parking lot.
Donations of frozen turkeys to benefit the Redwood Gospel Mission’s Great Thanksgiving Banquet, an annual feast held at the Sonoma Clunty Fairgrounds. Your donation can also help to provide food boxes to families in need. The drive marks the sixth year Oakmont has participated in this important community outreach.
If you are unable to purchase a turkey, you may still make a donation during the hours of the drive. Please drop off a check made payable to the Redwood Gospel Mission or call drive organizer Susan Chauncy, 5369765, to make arrangements for check pick-up.
Bill Wells, OVA facility manager, has resigned from his position, General Manager Christel Antone announced.
Wells joined OVA in 2021. Antone said Wells has made notable contributions to OVA’s physical plant. “Although Bill was only with Oakmont for a year, he jumped swiftly into the position and completed many projects. Bill brought a lot of experience and knowledge to Oakmont and the staff. He will be greatly missed, and we wish him well on his new endeavors,” she said.
Antone said OVA had begun a search to fill the facility manager position as quickly as possible. In the interim, Antone will oversee the maintenance department and staff with the assistance of the Maintenance Lead and Executive Assistant Dawn McFarland.
For any questions regarding facility maintenance, members should email Dawn@oakmontvillage.com or call 539-1611.
The Community of Educational and Transparency Committee has an opening for a member. The CETC was established in 2018 as a Standing Committee of the OVA Board. By charter, the committee’s purpose is to provide recommendations to the board regarding various educational opportunities in order for the Board to conduct community business and enhance
nAnita Roraus, OVA
member knowledge about concepts and opinions important to our community with the objective of promoting greater civility, respect and trust.
The CETC meets the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the OVA office. If interested in being considered to join this committee please contact Sue Aiken, CETC chairperson, at slaiken5440@gmail. com.
December 6, 2–7 pm AT WeST rec.
LImITS: 15 gallons of liquid (with a maximum of five gallons per container) or 125 pounds of solid material. Never mix chemicals. Place in sealed containers in the trunk, packed to prevent spills. Syringes/needles in sealed, approved Sharps containers.
NOT AccepTeD: Explosives or ammunition,
radioactive materials, biological waste (except syringes), TVs, computer monitors and other electronics, business waste.
Online appointments are now available: https:// zerowastesonomahhwevent.as.me/Oakmont.
Also, you are welcome to call 364-6927 to schedule an appointment. Only 100 appointments available— first-come, first-served.
Windham Hill Winter Solstice Concert, with Barbara Higbie and friends, will occur on December 16. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., event starts at 6 p.m. at the Berger Center.
Tickets, $25 per person, are available at the OVA beginning November 1.
Barbara Higbie’s family moved to Ghana, West Africa when she was 13 years of age. It was there she first fell in love with music and studied with master drummer Mustafa Tetty Addy. Later in life, after musical studies at Mills College, studies at the Sorbonne, and a sojourn performing in Paris, she returned to West Africa with a Watson Fellowship to collect traditional music. A professional musician since age 17, Barbara
has played everything from Traditional Jazz, Bluegrass, and Irish to New Classical Music, Blues, and African Pop. She is known for her ability to compose in a style that is both genre-bending and accessible.
A Grammy-nominated, Bammy award-winning composer, pianist, fiddler, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, Barbara Higbie has performed on more than 100 albums, including Carlos Santana’s 2007 release.
Join Barbara Higbie, Jami Sieber, Vicki Randle, Michaelle Goerlitz and Dewayne Pate to celebrate this year’s Winter Solstice along with the release of her new album. Listen to “Tip the Canoe” or “Just Like a Woman” at https://barbarahigbie.com/videos.
Dear Editor:
As part of the recent 2030 discussion much was said about the importance of the commercial central complex in terms of services that are helpful and convenient for our Oakmont community. The Saturday morning Farmers’ Market in the Wells Fargo parking lot may not have been mentioned. But… rain or shine, the farmers and crafts people are there to make our day better with fresh produce, flowers and eggs, original crafts and now, made on the spot tacos and quesadillas. And don’t forget the toe-tapping live music!
Please come out and support their community which in turn helps to keep them in our community! It is friendly, fun and full of flavors! Let them all know the value they add to our weekend from 9 a.m. to noon, rain or shine.
Sue AikenDear Editor:
For over 16 years, I have attended most of the Sunday Symposium lectures. Why you ask? My wife and I decided we wanted to move to a retirement community that offered mental and athletic stimulation.
In moving to Oakmont, we wanted a community that offered college level classes, lectures, and entertainment. I served on the Symposium Board for over 10 years as the speaker chairperson. Symposium offers high quality speakers on a myriad of subjects 35 Sundays a year. I have heard talks on politics, health, philosophy, history, art and many more topics. The talks are given by experts in their fields who present a 45-minute lecture for only a $3 donation per talk. Even if I was not highly interested in the topic, I still went because I am always open to learning something new!
Now that I am almost 86, I can’t play tennis or ride my bike, but still very interested in learning new ideas! I still attend the Sunday Symposium and appreciate that there is an activity I can still attend and enjoy.
Now that Covid is mostly under control, the symposium needs your in-person attendance and financial support. The speakers receive a modest fee that is paid by our donations on Sunday.
I invite you attend the next talk and find out why hundreds of us attend Symposium.
Gordon Freedman
The Oakmont Jazz Club will meet December 7 at 2 p.m. at the East Recreation Center. There will be no charge but it will be a potluck and you will need to bring your plate and silverware. You will also need to bring your choice of drink and the type of glass needed for it.
This is why we have a no-charge party. It also means no clean-up people needed at the end of the party! You can just take your belongings and leave! I will provide a turkey, or Honey Baked Ham. Please tell me your preference, or bring a vegetarian choice. The entertainment will be again provided by the members of our club. If you have a talent and would like to participate, please come and join the fun. You may even decide that you would like to join the Jazz Club! We have a piano in the room as well as microphones and speakers.
Because it is a potluck and all are welcome, this is always a fun gathering. There is nothing like discovering that Joe, who has always said “hello, how are you?” at the meetings actually can not only sing, but also plays the flute.
I will need a few volunteers to place the table cloths and set the serving table. Email me at hurstfurn@aol. com and let me know that you will be willing to help, and especially if you will volunteer your talent, or talents, for the show. If you are just coming for the fun that’s OK, too. If you wish to bring a friend with talent, we will especially welcome them.
Now for business. If you would like to be on our mailing list, and for whatever reason are not, please send me your name with your information, including your telephone number, address and email. I have not been able to add two or three that I have, as my computer is acting up and is having surgery.
Please come to the holiday party! Santa Claus has promised to play “When The Saints Go Marching In,” again.
oA kmont 2030 Continued from page 1
residents. A panel of Working Group leaders will discuss the process that was used to generate ideas and discuss the criteria that has been developed. If there are questions that require further examination, a series of Community Conversations will be held in January. It is hoped that there will be ideas to recommend to the board no later than February.
“The Oakmont 2030 process may seem complicated and lengthy, but it is a deliberate way to make sure that the community’s vision developed this summer is heard and that a pathway for implementation is established,” says Marlena Tremont, co-chair. “Short-term ideas can go to the OVA staff or a board committee for immediate action. The longer-term opportunities from the vision that might ultimately be recommended (such as establishing a new gathering place) will be put into the board’s project oversight process. In all cases, your continued community input remains vital.”
Members may direct questions to 2030@ oakmontvillage.com.
nNews Staff Report
Since its kickoff in 2011, MAO has shown nearly 700 films with an audience of well over 30,000 Oakmont residents.
Operating under a license provided by the Oakmont Village Association at a cost of more than $5,000 a year, the movies are shown free of charge. OVA also provides the latest audio-visual equipment and recently purchased a new screen.
Adding two Sunday night showings early next year depends on the availability of MAO’s dedicated team of volunteers. The current team includes Deborah Davidson, Al Haggerty, Mike McInnis and Jeff Neuman.
Haggerty, the only remaining member of the original MAO team, said they are always looking for new team members to learn to operate the audio/ visual equipment involved in showing movies. He stressed that the equipment, which was updated in recent years, is easy to operate. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Haggerty at 538-4231 or alcarol7366@Yahoo.com
The movie program was organized at the direction of the president of the OVA Board, the late Jim Kaiser. He felt it important to revive an earlier movie program that was discontinued. Three volunteers met at Kaiser’s home and formed an ad hoc committee to launch Movies at Oakmont. Movies were first shown at the East Recreation Center and later moved to Berger as audiences grew.
When MAO resumed early in 2022 following the Covid shutdown, it became clear that there were fewer movies in the pipeline as a result of Covid. Compounding the problem was that the new movies were often blockbusters about superheroes—not exactly aimed at Oakmont audiences.
“It was a challenge,” Haggerty said. “Out of desperation we showed a few clunkers without prescreening them. Now at least one of the volunteers has to view the movie and, if there’s any question, another volunteer will view it. We can’t please everyone. It’s not unusual for one member of the audience to thank us for a ‘wonderful’ movie and another to chastise us for showing the same movie.”
The committee meets periodically to decide on the
With audiences increasing in size since its post-Covid resurrection, Movies at Oakmont is considering adding a Sunday night movie at 7 p.m. twice a month in addition to its regular 2 p.m. Sunday showings at Berger Center.
upcoming schedule. If a movie doesn’t get at least two yes votes, it isn’t shown. All movies have to be cleared for showing under the OVA license, which covers hundreds of studios and distributors.
The committee considers a wide variety of movie genres, including dramas, rom-coms, biographies, action movies, foreign films and documentaries. All movies are shown with closed captions if available, and Berger has a hearing aid loop for those with hearing aids.
A further complication has arisen with an increasing number of films created by companies relatively new to the business of film making, such as Apple+ and Netflix. In some cases, there is no DVD, which means it has to be streamed. This requires special equipment and computer expertise plus separate subscriptions to the film’s maker.
The movie schedule appears in issues of the Oakmont News and on the bulletin board outside Berger.
An
s c AP e ch
nges Continued from page 1 grass rebate which covered half the cost of her new landscape with native plants. She said her entire subOVA—Meadow Green 2—followed her lead and is saving $1,000 a month on water bills.
Other steps she identified to protect wildlife are to avoid trimming trees during nesting season, add water elements to landscaping, obey the 25-mile an hour speed limit, keep cats inside and reduce upward facing lighting.
Dave Watts, Firewise Committee chair who attended the Town Hall, said he keeps asking questions and researching. “We need to do more firebreaks and avoid contiguous mulch,” he cautioned.
Are you single? Join our club to mix and mingle with other singles. Our club offers a great opportunity to network with other singles with similar interests. Develop new friendships, enjoy meals out through Bon Appetit, participate in our monthly group mixers, reserve a seat at a single’s table for Oakmont events such as Boomers.
NOvember mIxerANNuAL
THANkSgIvINg FeASTWHeN: Sunday, November 20, 4 p.m.
WHere:
East Rec. CenterOur Thanksgiving event will be catered including appetizers, main, sides and dessert for $35. All you have to do is bring the beverage of your choice, key card for entry, proof of Covid vaccination, and the desire to enjoy a bountiful meal while mixing and mingling with other Singles.
This is a member-only event. A group email flyer and instructions on how to sign up was sent at the end of October, if you didn’t receive it, please contact Priscilla, proslyn49@aol.com.
Bon Appetit will be taking a brief hiatus for the holiday season. We’ll resume our group meals out the first Thursday in February, 2023.
We’re looking forward to seeing you at the Singles Thanksgiving feast, Sunday November 20. Happy Holidays!
It’s never too late to become a Singles’ member. Club dues are $12 annually. Please complete a blank form located in the Singles folder at the OVA office and include your check for $12 payable to OSC, place them in the membership folder.
Order your magnetic name badge by completing a name badge form located at the OVA office in the Singles folder. Include your check for $9.60 payable to OSC.
nCharlene Bunas
Passcode: 961362. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. in the Berger Center.
THree cHAmpS ADvISe
Being an athlete takes a heavy toll on the body. So does living long. Tom Brady, Serena Williams and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar live examples of how to live well into your sixth, seventh and eighth (and beyond) decade.
In August, Tom Brady celebrated his 45th birthday. One of the oldest football players, he maintains a lifestyle of diet and exercise. His highly disciplined diet includes organic, locally grown and seasonal. He avoids processed foods, sugar, fat, dairy, nightshade vegetables, most oils, soy and gluten. Instead of caffeine or alcohol, he drinks water. Plenty of it, but not during meals. He nether eats nor drinks three hours before bedtime.
Another example of athlete who remained top on her game until recently retiring is Serena Williams. She continues to stay in shape by raw and vegan diet and a circuit of different exercises. She emphasizes mind and body strength. “It’s all about having a strong mind; mental strength should be your strongest asset.” She believes most challenges can be overcome “if we don’t lose focus on priorities.”
nMary Hastings
bALANce AND STreNgTH cLASS OAp 507, SecTION 2039
WHeN: Fridays at 9:30 a.m.
WHere: East Rec. Center
cOST: No fee
You can register online with the JC at olderadultprogram@santarosa.edu/join-class or come early to class at 9:15 a.m. and volunteers will help you register and enroll in this class.
Bring your Theraband (if you need one, you can purchase one at class for $5). Bring water to stay hydrated!
It’s back to the Berger on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 11:30 a.m. for our November luncheon.
Everyone is invited. On the menu will be Veal Piccata, Chicken Cordon Blue and vegetarian and gluten free upon request. Our social time with its free beverages, enables all to relax and socialize. We will have raffles and a great speaker.
Serena Williams.
She believes in helping others. “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to others. Raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.”
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar played for 20 years before retiring at age 42. Asked how he managed to stay on the baseball court and avoid serious injury throughout his career he says: “I committed myself to a dedicated fitness regimen that included yoga and a balanced diet.” His advice? Don’t lift your shirt every night and get discouraged because you can’t bounce a dirham off your abs, or because you can’t find your abs.
All three of the sports stars live the same example: consistency is key to staying in shape. People often think that working out has to be elaborate and time-consuming. No, unless you’re planning on challenging The Rock to a wrestling match, simply working out on a regular basis gets the job done.
Start with baby steps. At the least, walk, bike or swim. These are easy on joints while providing cardio workout. It’s not about perfection, it’s about improvement. With the consent from medical advisor, work up to OHI class or two. Start small, start slow, but start. Take it easy and work up to working hard. Stamina, strength and confidence are friends you’ll have for decades.
Mark Randol will remind us of the role the U.S. Merchant Marine played in WWII. Mark retired from the U.S. government in May 2011 after 35 years of military and federal civil service and moved with his wife Fran to Oakmont. He is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, earned a Master Degree in Government (National Security Studies) from Georgetown University, and completed all Ph.D. course work and comprehensive exams in World Politics at the Catholic University of America in Washington D.C.
Mark Randol.
In the past decade, he has taught college courses in domestic terrorism and counterintelligence. He lectures on aviation security at the University of Southern California’s Viterbe School of Engineering; and teaches U.S. Coast Guard-certified maritime security courses. He also provides security consulting services for, among other clients, the Bank of Canada (Ottawa), the Phoenix Department of Aviation, United Airlines, the Palo Alto Jewish Community Center, and several independent schools.
Mark also gives TED talks to community groups on topics ranging from history, homeland security, intelligence, terrorism, cyber security, migration, immigration and pandemic diseases.
Bring a friend to learn the joy we spread. A bottle of wine goes to you if you bring a guest who is a potential new member. All men and women are encouraged to join us. Check us out at this luncheon.
Check our website: sir92oakmont.org. For more information contact Marianne: mariantques@gmail.com
Are reTurNINg NOv. 16
SIR 92 is pleased to state that its partnership with the Redwood Empire Food Bank is back. The Food Barrels are returning on Wednesday, Nov. 16.
The need for food to be distributed has never been greater. The Food Bank supports the entire family. Children get lunch, mothers get basic food needs and many seniors receive food aid. Please fill up the food barrels stationed at the Berger and Activities Center. Fill them up only with non-perishable food items such as canned soup, canned vegetables and canned chili.
The barrels had to be discontinued because some were misusing them. Do donate non-perishable food. Having the food barrels here saves many a trip outside our community and shows we all care about others.
As the seasons change and the holidays approach, many of our members have asked, “What can we do to recognize the work of the OVA staff?” In 2016 the OVA Board approved the Employee Appreciation Fund to recognize the 15-person non-management team with a special thank-you in the form of a holiday bonus gift.
Donations will be distributed at year-end. Members who wish to donate may contribute via check by December 9 to the OVA Office at 6637 Oakmont Drive, Suite A. Please make checks payable to OVA, and on the memo line, please write “EMP APP Fund” (OVA Employee Appreciation Fund).
The team at the OVA office is fortunate to work with the wonderful residents who make our job so enjoyable.
FALL DANcINg NeWS
The Oakmont Squares have enjoyed welcoming an influx of new dancers this fall. Club caller Lawrence Johnstone has been using the “red light-green light” system, alternating dances for beginners with dance tips for the more experienced dancers so that everyone gets to dance at a comfortable level. The music is varied and spans genres from country, Big Band, classic rock and more, including Broadway standards and an occasional classical selection.
The new fall class is now closed, but classes begin periodically. Experienced dancers who may be thinking about joining the group are welcome to come dance at the Social Square Dance Level. No partner is necessary since it is customary to switch partners often to get more dancers on the floor. Most dancers wear casual everyday attire, but once in a while, some dancers go all out in traditional matching outfits.
The Oakmont Squares meet Tuesday evenings from 7–9 p.m. at the East Rec. Center. Donation is $6 per person. Come dance in a square and make a circle of friends. For information call Jenny at 367-2102.
The Oakmont Chinese Mahjong Club celebrated Halloween and Dia de Los Muertos at its Monday game day on October 31.
The Chinese Mahjong Club plays selected Mondays at the West Rec. at 2 p.m. and every Thursday in Suite B of the OVA building at 10 a.m. All residents are welcome.
For a very limited time, tell any member of the Oakmont Gardens sales team “I want 10K my way” and save on the beautiful senior living apartment of your choice. We’ll give you up to $10,000 in savings, any way you want it.
301 White Oak Drive Santa Rosa, California 95409 707-899-1329 • oakmontgardens.com
We live in challenging times. Change happens all around us. Stress and anxiety are often daily companions. And losing a loved one is perhaps the most difficult and demanding of all.
For those going through grief and loss, help is available. Please join the weekly Grief Support Group which meets Tuesday mornings from 9–10:30 a.m. at 6637 Oakmont Drive, Suite B. This is an open-ended, drop-in group, led by a local hospice bereavement counselor. Come and share with others who are going through similar loss. Find strength in community. You are not alone in this journey!
For more information, please call 540-9838 or email LarryHallett@ContinuumHospice.com.
On October 25, the second official gathering of the Constitution Club was attended by a robust crowd of about 60 members including a dozen potential members.
Three Prager U, “5-minute videos” were shown:
1. Writing the Constitution: Miracle in Philadelphia Spring 1787—American revolution won. How to govern the new nation? No chief executive, no agreement on taxes or their collection. Teetering on the edge of anarchy, what happened next is nothing short of a miracle. As told by political historian, author and visiting scholar at AEI, Jay Cost.
2. The Constitution: Presidential Powers. How did the Framers ensure the President would have enough power to be an effective Chief Exec without making him a dictator. As told by Prof of Law, UC Berkeley, John Yoo.
3. The Constitution: The Limited Powers of Congress Framers wanted more power to the people, less to the government. A Radical new idea started with the Legislative Branch. As told by Prof of Law, UC Berkeley, John Yoo.
Discussion afterwards raised questions and sparked comparisons to current views of the Constitution as well as issues that matter to all, regardless of political leanings, from national, to state and local bases.
Given the post-Christmas pre-New Year’s timing of our next gathering (scheduled bi-monthly, on even months) falling on December 27, 4 p.m. in the Berger, the club will reconvene for a BYOB and share platters of edibles. There will be a sign-up sheet for edibles on our SignUpGenius account (invitation will be sent shortly).
You do not have to be a member to attend any gathering. All are welcome. Nevertheless, we do need to know how many chairs to provide at each gathering.
Starting February 27, 2023, and continuing every other even numbered month, our gatherings will include films, discussions as well as speakers, and moderated by Jane Gyorgy.
Your participation is welcome. We welcome suggestions for topics to present, full-length movie to view or books to be read prior to a future gathering or something that can be employed within the period of a gathering. If you have a speaker from whom you would like, please have your speaker contact us directly for scheduling.
If you are not already a member, please drop us an email at TheNewOakmontCC@gmail.com to let us know your interest in attending a particular gathering and/or membership.
“Humility and Forgiveness”—these items should be on our daily menu especially during this coming Thanksgiving holiday.
Come and join us every Thursdays at the East Rec. at 10:30 a.m. and learn to become true chefs for the Holy Spirit.
When I was in elementary school, a very, very long time ago, my dad built me a really fine desk for my bedroom. That desk was my place of solace where I could not only do my homework, but draw, read or daydream. It was mine. I had no siblings. I was so alone and that desk held the books that were my friends and drawing tools with which I could create. I still remember how safe and comfortable I felt in my own little space.
That was long ago, but this is now and the importance of my desk, still in my thoughts, brings up the wondering of how many elementary school children, who were in lockdown for more than two years of Covid and not able to go to school, probably had nowhere of their own to find comfort and to do the homework they were assigned via Zoom or even personal visits from their teacher.
I know, you say, “What’s your point, lady?” Well, here goes. Some wonderfully industrious, talented folks all around the USA started building small desks for children in need. In Oakmont, there were many, many folks dedicated to this endeavor. Valley of the Moon Rotary members caught on and joined in and contributed with cost and labor. Several hundred desks were made and delivered to various schools in Sonoma County.
HAppY NeW YeAr’S pArTY
WHeN: Saturday, December 31
WHere: Berger Center
TIme: Doors open at 4:30 p.m., dinner time from 5:30–6:30 p.m., music from 6:30–10 p.m.
cOST: $110 (due to the high cost of food and music)
muSIc: Poyntlyss Sistars—back by popular demand. What a fun band and great voices and song choice!
meNu: We will start with an assortment of cheese and crackers, followed by Chardonnay Chicken, HandCarved Prime Rib, Au Gratin potatoes, vegetable medley, tossed green salad and desert table. Coffee, ice, cups and lemon water provided. We will have linen table cloths and napkins. Food will be buffetstyle on China plates.
So weather you like to dance or just like to watch and listen to the music it is fun for all! We will be ringing in the New Year at 9 p.m.
For the best seating, you need to get your reservations in early as it will sell out very fast, as it did last year. So don’t get left out.
You can mail your checks to 7111 Oak Leaf Drive, Santa Rosa, Ca. 95409 or you can put it in the ShaBoom Folder in the OVA office. You can also drop it in our mail slot right side of our garage door.
Any questions please feel free to call us at 539-6666.
DuAL cITIzeNSHIp bY rIgHT OF reTurN
The Oakmont Genealogy Club will next meet on Monday, Nov. 28 at 1 p.m. in the East Rec. You can also join the meeting by Zoom, so watch your email for the link to do that.
The topic for the upcoming Genealogy Club program is on how to obtain European citizenship based on your ancestor’s place of citizenship. Our speaker will be Janice Sellers, a well-known genealogist. Most countries in the New World base a child’s citizenship on place of birth, but most countries in Europe base it on parentage—what was the citizenship of your parents? Many of those countries also offer citizenship by descent, or right of return, meaning that if you have ancestors who were citizens of that country two, three, or possibly more generations back, you might qualify for dual citizenship.
This is what communities and service clubs can do for the better good. Our children have suffered tremendously and have fallen behind scholastically, so they need all the help they can get. Needless to say, it takes a village and more to help our future leaders stand a chance in this tumultuous time.
Valley of the Moon Rotary also supports many local non-profits dedicated to assisting children in dire or low-income situations, such as VOM Children’s Home, Child Parent Institute, 10,000 Degrees Scholarships, Boys & Girls Clubs, The Living Room, Women’s Recovery Services, St. Joseph’s Mobile Health, Redwood Empire Food Bank, Rincon Valley Unified School District projects, and more.
I hope this strikes a chord with you. If so, please drop in and visit with us on most Thursday mornings around 7:45 a.m. at the East Rec. Center. We’ll serve you coffee and a light breakfast, plus offer you a cheerful “Good Morning.” You may just be in a place in your life that is calling to you and Rotary might be the right fit for you. Valley of the Moon Rotary hopes to see you soon.
Two of the best-known examples of countries that offer dual citizenship by right of return are Italy and Ireland. In this presentation, our speaker will discuss the requirements involved for these two countries, which involves gathering documentation, applying, and waiting. She will also talk about how to find out generally if a country in which your ancestors lived offers citizenship by descent and whether you might be eligible.
Our October meeting featured speaker Jeanne Porter of the Family History Center who showed us how to put our personal family trees on the free FamilySearch.org website, as well as access their many online sources. She also said anyone is invited to go the Santa Rosa LDS where they will help with your research and make available many databases that are not available online anywhere else. The meeting and the handout are available on our website.
The Oakmont Genealogy Club meets from 1–3 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month (except July and December) both via Zoom and in the East Rec. For information about genealogy research or club activities please visit our website at: www. oakmontgenclub.org. Past programs are posted there as well as tips and internet links.
If you have research questions or would like to receive our e-newsletter, email: oakmontancestry@ gmail.com.
What are the obligations of volunteering to drive with the volunteer helpers? The average volunteer drives once a month for a round trip of 14 miles for a total of two hours.
Downside? Can’t think of one. Maybe $3 worth of gas. Upside? Accepting lots of gratitude and meeting nice people. Feeling virtuous! Doing a kindness for others. Fits your schedule, not the other way around. What about volunteering as a coordinator? Ah, now that is a bigger time commitment but still quite doable. Once a year you are the point person between someone who needs a ride and the index file of drivers with their available schedules. You match the two. As coordinator the Oakmonter calls you and says when a ride is needed. You check through index for a driver who lists that time. You call and if it is a match, the driver calls the rider and sets it up. Two weeks, about
nDon McPhersonOkTOberFeST 2022
An abundance of clothing in fall colors contributed to the festive Oktoberfest celebration on October 22 with 20 club members and significant others attending.
The celebration began with the annual Oktoberfest tournament. Tournament Director Jean-Michel Poulnot handled registration and randomization of teams with the club’s “Fanny” looking on. Fanny, “the Goddess of Pétanque,” is the focal point of a traditional ritual that follows a 13-0 shutout loss. Eighteen club members played in the tournament, the maximum that can be accommodated on the three Oakmont courts.
In the first round, Shari Downs, Richard Goodwin and Linda McPherson defeated Alex Dames, Cynthia Goodwin and Evelyn Zigmont, 13-6; Gordon Blumenfeld, Margi Nielsen and Steve Spillman defeated Ted DeJung, Jean-Michel Poulnot and Gail Ruder, 13-7; and John Cochennette, Jim Knapp and Pat Stanfield defeated Ellean Huff, Nancy LaPorte and Steven Payette, 13-7. In the Playoff Round, Downs/R. Goodwin/L. McPherson defeated Blumenfeld/Nielsen/Spillman, 13-8 to win the championship. DeJung/Poulnot/Ruder defeated Cochennette/Knapp/Stanfield, 13-6 to take third place, and C. Goodwin/D. McPherson (subbing for Dames)/Zigmont defeated Huff/LaPorte/Payette, 13-1 to take fifth place.
an hour a day, once a year.
Downside? Once in a while it is hard to make a match because we need more drivers. That can be frustrating Upside? You can do it in your jammies. Lots of thank-yous!
Recently, definitely not part of the job but while being coordinator I went to sign up a new person in need at their home. I was amazed how this person had turned the Covid lockdown into an exploration of art talent she never knew she had. I got to see some absolutely wonderful new art.
Do you see yourself as able and willing to try one of these volunteer opportunities? Call Matt Zwerling at zwermd3@gmail.com or 539-8996 or, always consider emailing volunteers@oakmontvillage.com and finding out more opportunities or to ask questions.
upcOmINg eveNTS
Woofers Dog Walk Yappy Hour: Monday, November 14—meet at West Rec. Picnic Area 10 a.m.; Friday, November 25—meet at the East Rec. parking area at 10 a.m.
NOTE: Starting November walks return to 10 a.m. start time. Walk is 1–2 miles (round trip). This is a casual walk; go at your own pace. Remember to bring water for yourself and your pup and wear comfortable walking shoes. All Oakmont Residents and all sizes and breeds of dogs are welcome.
“early bird Special:” If you plan to remain in the pack for 2023, why not renew early and save?
Current Canine Club members, who renew in November or December, receive “Early Bird Discount.” Pay only $10 individual or $16 household. After December 31, annual dues are regular price $12 individual and $20 for a household.
Make checks payable to Oakmont Canine Club. Mail checks to club Treasurer: Dick Ayers, 6429 Meadow Creek Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95409. Dick has secure mailbox slot on his garage if you prefer to drop it off. You may also leave checks in Canine Club folder in OVA office.
Welcome to all new members who joined on OVA Club Night in October, or those who join in November or December. Your dues rollover so you are all paid up for 2023!
Holiday Food Safety Tips for Dogs: Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner. During the holidays take precautions to keep pups safe. Whether candy or leftovers, keep people food well out of your dog’s reach during the holidays. If you want to give your dog a little Thanksgiving turkey, only give 1 or 2 ounces. Rich holiday food can wreak havoc on a digestive system. Do note: chocolate is dangerous for dogs! They cannot digest it! Other highly toxic foods for dogs are avocado, alcohol, nuts, onions and garlic and grapes and raisins.
Nancy LaPorte prepares to point in a close Oktoberfest game. minded reconsideration of the donnée (the landing spot) that was used when the point was missed.
By rule, a player has up to one minute before making a throw. Sam Porter, author of “2 Balls & Half a Brain,” urges players to take and use that time to refocus and re-visualize after a missed throw. “Do not just throw again if you miss,” Porter coaches. “It usually just repeats the error. Come out of the circle and walk to the target and back. Count the steps as a way of clearing your mind of the last throw. Forget that last ball. Reset, revisualize, and only then throw again.”
Happy Tails Dog park is located at 6302 Stone Bridge Rd (behind the Community Garden) and available daily to all Oakmont residents, Sunrise to Sunset.
big Dogs get Their Day! Big Dog Play Date is Saturday, December 3 (any breed over 35 lbs.). Bring your Frisbees and ball slings from 9–11 a.m. The park will be all yours without any little dogs underfoot.
A potluck picnic lunch at the courts followed the announcement of winners and photos.
A common performance mistake when pointing is playing too fast by immediately throwing another boule after failing to score the point. This is often accompanied by negative, self-critical “head talk” that reduces confidence and interferes with open-
French in origin, Pétanque (pay-tonk), also known as Boules, has been played in Oakmont since the 1980s. The Club, founded in 1996, encourages all Oakmonters who may be interested in playing or learning to play pétanque to come to the courts between Berger and the OVA offices at 9:45 a.m. on the Club play days of Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. The club has boules to lend while you’re learning, and you’ll be playing right away.
Anyone, regardless of experience, is welcome to enjoy the challenge and camaraderie of a simple game that is inexpensive, fun to play, learned quickly, and endlessly fascinating in its deeper levels of execution and strategy. No dues are required - just sign up to be on the club roster. Club play days are casual friendly games with teams randomly assigned.
Small dog hours continue for pups 25lbs. or less, 3–4 p.m. every Sunday and every Wednesday. Response has been great to the club request that dog owners with breeds larger than 25lbs. observe the 2-hour window per week for small dogs. Club members thank you for respecting their safety concerns.
Last month did you get a great photo of your pup in Halloween costume? Then submit your photo to Steve at shuntley@huntleyenvironmental.com for our club photo gallery.
For listings of future Canine Club events or a membership form, visit the website http://www.oakmontcanineclub.org.
Thank you, Boomers and friends, for making our Ghostly Night the most fun Halloween Party we’ve had. We suggested that you wear costumes and just about everyone did! And the creativity! Among the couples were basketball players, gauchos, Hawaiians, and even breakfast! Static cling deserves honorable mention for uniqueness. Of course, there were the traditional witches, flappers, butterflies, prisoners and cops.
The winners each received a pass to a Santa Rosa movie theater. They were: Best couple—Theresa Noe and Jeff Wolinsky as Toakmont Hippies; Most Original—Ernie Carter as the Chef you don’t want fixing your dinner; Spookiest— Trisha Mitchell as a very scary Dia de los Muertos lady.
We also wish to thank our volunteer judges for doing a great job. It wasn’t easy, but they came through for us, selecting the best of the greatest costumes ever.
We will have a buffet dinner with ham, turkey and all the trimmings. This is free to members, so join Boomers to take advantage of this event and many more to come in the new year. See our website for more information.
nGary Purece
OAkmONT TeNNIS cLub ANNOuNceS FALL meeTINg begINNer Or ADvANceD, OrgANIzeD TeNNIS IS Here
IN OAkmONT FOr YOu!
Brian Williams, OTC President announced the Fall membership meeting of the Oakmont Tennis Club (OTC) to be held on Wednesday, November 30 from 2–4 p.m. at the East Recreation Center. All current and prospective members are invited to attend this informative meeting. Your participation is encouraged as we will be looking to our membership for what they want to see from the OTC in 2023. In addition, there are several board and committee positions open for 2023 and your interest/participation is invited.
This past year has been extremely challenging for the OTC. While some noted positives were accomplished, such as the resurfacing of the east and west tennis courts, new ball machines and defeating the plan to restripe the east tennis courts for both tennis and pickleball, we were not successful in scheduling any tennis tournaments or social events this past year. The reason for this inaction on our part was due to the extremely time consuming and confusing information regarding the need for event liability insurance.
Different insurance providers were contacted, coverage and plans analyzed, including the possible coverage of the OTC under the OVA’s master policy. The potential of legal liability to your Board of Directors weighed heavily in our search for answers to the many questions we had. One board member resigned early in the year over this issue.
Your incoming 2023 Board of Directors will formally address this issue but it appears at this time that tennis tournaments and social events will once again be part of the Oakmont scene. We thank you for your patience and look forward to a more active, and enjoyable, tennis calendar in 2023.
Please note: we invite your active participation as a prospective Board Member to help set the course for the Oakmont Tennis Club. Please let us know if you are interested. Contact Olivia Kinzler (oliviak51@outlook. com) if you want to be considered for one of these open positions: Tennis Events Director, Social Director, Membership Chair/Directory, Web Coordinator.
nLinda Suhr
THe True cOSTS OF WAr
When we think about the cost of something, a dollar amount usually comes to mind. What about intangible costs—personal, social, emotional, psychological, environmental, to name a few—of society’s existential issues?
USMC Sgt. Hank Kelty bore witness to myriad costs of war when he served in South Viet Nam from December 1968 through June 1970. As a Combat Photojournalist in the Public Affairs Office of the 1st Marine Division, he photographed and wrote about the harsh realities and experiences of US military service members. His stories were published in Stars and Stripes, Sea Tiger, and Leatherneck Magazine. He received an award for best combat story from the Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association.
Since his return to civilian life, he has continued to investigate inaccuracies promoted by the US government to conceal the true costs of war. He now lives in Oakmont and is a founding member of the Oakmont Veteran’s Club.
The Oakmont Progressives Club is proud to present veteran Sgt. Hank Kelty to the East Rec. Center on November 14 to speak on the true costs of war. Wine and cheese social at 6:30 p.m., meeting from 7–8:15 p.m. The event is free.
All Oakmonters are welcome. Go to https://www. oakmontprogressives.org for more information.
pLeASe keep cHeckINg WebSITe FOr upDATeS
We welcome you to join us on a hike, whether you are a member yet or not, our annual membership is only $15. Go to our website at www.oakmonthikingclub.org to join the club, get more hike details, club information, photos and lots more.
This hillside hike loops around the perimeter of the park climbing through oak woodlands to the Alta Vista summit with scenic overlooks of the Santa Rosa plains and nearby vineyards. The Three lakes trail will take us around three large ponds if seasonal conditions permit. Five
miles with 625’ elevation gain. Bring your hiking shoes and sticks, water and snacks. 9:30 a.m. departure from the Berger Parking lot. Rain cancels. Hike leaders are Susan and Gary Novak, 569-6016.
Kortum Trail Hike begins at Wright’s Beach and an easy hike north along the rocky, Pacific coastline to Goat Rock Beach and back. Meet at Berger to leave by 8:30 a.m. sharp. Around eight miles and 800’ of elevation gain.
Bring ample water, lunch, hiking poles, and interesting conversation on this beautiful Fall hike. Hike leader is Chris Sork, 495-3196.
THurSDAY, NOvember 24— HAppY THANkSgIvINg!
We might begin an existential or spiritual talk with this question. Or it could simply be the start of a very pragmatic discussion concerned with the history, culture and future of a person or group.
I’m actually asking myself that question anew. Who am I, now that I’ve crossed the 60 threshold? Who makes up this new community in which I’m now living? And who is this community I’ve begun to serve, Oakmont Community Church?
Maybe you’re asking some similar questions. Well let me offer a couple of answers. This is what I’ve understood so far.
OCC is supposed to be a spiritual home for its community, for people living in Oakmont and beyond. It is a church firstly for people from many Christian backgrounds who now live in Oakmont and desire a local faith community. Among us are people from Baptist, Charismatic, Presbyterian, Methodist and many other traditions. But it is also to be a place for those seeking friends, help, connection, purpose, even answers to existential questions.
So how’s that supposed to work? As I write this, I’m conscious that this sounds like a recipe for communal disaster. When and where does something like this ever really work? Well, there are examples and I hope that this is or becomes another one of those.
We don’t aim to be all things to all people. But we do aim to provide a local community, committed to one another, to God, to being a positive force in our larger community, to helping each other grow in the journey of faith. We have no particular doctrinal statement, but we do center ourselves around the Bible, which allows for quite a variety of interpretation, and love.
We don’t have our own building but we do meet weekly in a few places to which all are invited, regardless of confession or background.
Bible Study and Prayer on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m.–12 noon at Room B.
Prayer on Saturdays from 10–11 a.m. at a home at 6687 Oakmont Dr.
Worship on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at the East Rec. Center.
Also monthly on Sundays we have a potluck and occasional special events after our worship service.
Speaking of which we extend an invitation to all for Advent Wreath Making on Sunday, Nov. 27 from 12–2 p.m. at the East Rec. Center.
For questions, information or to meet with me, contact us at www.occsantarosa.org occsantarosa@ gmail.com or 595-0166.
On Thursday, Dec. 8 at 1:30 p.m. in Berger Center, Music at Oakmont presents two rising stars, violinist Shannon Lee and pianist Melivia Raharjo.
Shannon Lee has been praised for her “remarkable fire, impeccable intonation, and big, vibrant tone” (Gramophone Magazine). She is a recent prize-winner in several prestigious competitions, including top prize and audience award at the Sendai Competition in Japan, as well as the Queen Elisabeth Competition in Belgium, the Naumburg Competition in New York City, and the Indianapolis Competition. Her festival appearances as soloist and chamber musician include the Heifetz International Music Institute as Artist-in-Residence, Music@Menlo, and Music from Angel Fire.
Born in Canada, Ms. Lee began studying violin at age four, making her solo debut at age 12 with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Two years later she performed in Europe with the Nuremburg Philharmonic. Other notable appearances include those with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Nashville Symphony, Las Vegas Philharmonic, Fresno Philharmonic, Phoenix Symphony, Belgian National Orchestra, and Sendai Philharmonic Orchestra. A diplomate of the Curtis Institute, she also served as a Curtis ArtistYear Fellow, developing an elementary school music curriculum as well as a chamber music program for high school students. Currently Ms. Lee is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Violin Performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music.
Melivia Raharjo, a native of Indonesia, is currently staff pianist at the Cleveland Institute of Music, where she received her Master’s and Artist Diploma in Collaborative Piano.
First place winner of the 2019 Darius Milhaud Performance Prize, Ms. Raharjo was selected to represent the Cleveland Institute at the Kennedy Center’s Conservatory Project. Before coming to the US, she discovered her passion in working with other musicians as a student at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music in Singapore. Since then, she has performed with such distinguished artists as the Takacs Quartet, Jaime Laredo, and Roger Vignoles. A participant in the Music Academy of the West’s summer music festival, Ms. Raharjo won the Duo Competition with violist Keoni Bolding, a 2021 winner in the Primrose Competition. She has also served as pianist for the cello masterclass program at the Hidden Valley Music Seminar.
For their program in Oakmont, the artists have chosen works by Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Arvo Part, Arseniy Gusev, and Stravinsky. For details, please visit our website www.musicatoakmont.org.
A birthday party! The audience is invited to remain following the concert for a brief celebration of the 101st birthday of our beloved founder, Bob Hayden. please note: For the continued safety and comfort of all, proof of vaccination is required. Masks, though not mandated, are strongly encouraged. If you have attended any Music at Oakmont concerts this season or last, you are already logged in, and will need only to state your name at the door.
WHAT: Music at Oakmont
WHeN: Thursday, Dec. 8, 1:30 p.m.
WHere: Berger Center
ADmISSION: $25, cash or check, or your season pass. Checks should be made out to Music at Oakmont.
nHilary Gruendle
THANkSgIvINg AT OAk
We are excited to offer a Thanksgiving Buffet at OAK on November 24. Reservations are required.
WHeN: November 24
SeATINg TImeS: 1–4 p.m.
cOST: $50 per person
meNu: Tri colored roasted beet salad with goat cheese, Spinach salad with pomegranate and blood orange; Roasted turkey, Mashed potatoes, Sweet potatoes with caramelized marshmallows, Green beans with toasted almonds, Turkey gravy, Cranberry
nBeverly Singersauce, Apple sage stuffing, Yeast Rolls; Apple cobbler, Pumpkin pie, Pecan pie; Seasonal breads, coffee and tea.
LIve muSIc
5–7 pm, $5 cOver cHArge
Nov. 14: Magic Band
Dec. 5: The Two of Us—Beatles Cover Band
Dec. 12: Jami Jamison
Dec. 19: Groovy Judy Band—Holiday Theme
The Kiwanis-sponsored Key Clubs at Montgomery and Maria Carrillo High Schools have been keeping their Kiwanis advisors, Tricia Shindledecker and Beverly Singer busy these past Saturdays. The Fall Rally for California Key Clubs was in October at Six Flags amusement Park in Vallejo. Also, during October were bake sales to raise money for “The Pediatric Trauma Center,” and in September there was volunteering at the Food Bank.
These Key Club members meet Tuesdays during their lunch hour. Getting to know and work with these service-minded high schoolers is a real pleasure. Their leadership qualities are amazing and makes one happy to mentor them.
In October the Oakmont Kiwanis Club also welcomed Vicki Whiting of “Kid Scoop News,” a newspaper in many schools. The newspaper strives to engage children in reading through educational, fun puzzles, games and articles. A parent’s guide is now available.
On October 27, the guest speaker was Bob Chapman to tell us all about CASA court-appointed advocates for foster children. What a calling it is to be an advocate and mentor for a child in need!
Two times the Kiwanis Club sponsored free
Bob Chapman representing CASA at Kiwanis meeting. meetings for Oakmonters with HICAP: one talk was in September and one in October. HICAP is an unbiased free service authorized by the California Department of Aging. The speakers suggested reviewing your Medicare coverage yearly as you do your other insurance policies. There are changes yearly which might benefit you. Their representatives are there to assist you at no charge. Call (800) 4340222 or (707) 526-4108.
You are always invited to attend Kiwanis meetings on Thursday at the Berger Center at 8 a.m. for breakfast followed by the 8:30–9-30 meeting and speaker. Contact Ann Isaacs at (916) 261-7270 or email annisaacs1@att.net.
Come to Star of The Valley Catholic Church Bingo for fun and food. Play Bingo and enjoy dinner while you visit with old and new friends.
WHeN: Tuesday, November 15
WHere: 495 White Oak Dr., Parish Center
TIme: 4 p.m.
DINNer: Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup, garlic bread and dessert cOST: $8. Bingo cards are $2 each. Beer, wine and soft drinks available at an additional cost.
This is one of a series of articles provided by the Oakmont Technology Learning Center on the use of technology by seniors Tina Nerat and Pat Barclay
On Oct. 27 we covered “wireline” internet service in Oakmont, e.g. cables to your home that give you internet access from your Internet Service Provider (Comcast, AT&T, Sonic). Wireless is a more complicated topic and can get confusing—cellular phone/internet service, home internet wireless service, and satellite internet.
cellular Internet Service. Technology advances have increased speed and reliability for wireless internet devices (cell phones and cellular-connected tablets). The technology is identified by its “generation,” shortened to the letter “G.” Third Generation (3G) technology has been superseded by later versions and is no longer supported. Fourth Generation (4G) is still supported, and there is a later version called 4G LTE (“long term evolution”) which is the most common version of 4G. The 5th Generation (5G) is the latest and greatest technology and is the current standard supported by most new devices. Most new cellular phones are 5G-capable but also will use 4G/LTE for years to come.
In general, cell phones require local cellular towers to communicate. In order to access the internet using your cell phone or tablet computer, you will need a “data plan” from your provider. The data plan defines how much internet data you can use before incurring additional costs. The costs can be excessive so it’s important to monitor your usage with your cellular provider’s tools.
Wireless Home Service. With the advent of 5G,
nMarlena Tremont
internet service providers are now looking at using cellular data for your home internet, eliminating the need for wires and cables run to your house. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are currently offering this capability in certain areas, usually densely populated urban areas. 5G may be the future of home internet but it is likely some time before it is available in Oakmont, making wired service the standard here for years to come.
Satellite Internet. This service has historically been considered “internet of last resort” when nothing else is available, usually in very rural areas. Viasat and HughesNet have been the big players in the past for satellite service. Given that Oakmont has “wireline” service with Comcast/Xfinity, AT&T, and Sonic, most people don’t even consider satellite. There are good reasons to not consider satellites: slow speeds, latency (delay) and data caps. These factors make it difficult to video conference or stream video and if you exceed your daily data limit, they slow you down so it’s unusable.
However, Starlink is changing the game for satellite internet. It is a satellite internet service developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX company. Starlink can be as good as 100mbps download and 12mbps upload service, so it’s better than the traditional satellite providers, but it is not competitive with traditional “wireline” internet providers in either speed or price.
For an electronic copy of this article and previous articles, visit oakmont-learning.org under Tech Articles.
TWO cONcerTS AND THe WINTer cLASS prevIeW
WINTer 2023 cLASSeS Come to hear from the instructors about the exciting Winter 2023 class line-up.
WHeN: Wed., December 14. Refreshments and music at 2:30 p.m., Preview at 3 p.m.
WHere: Berger Center cLASSeS: San Francisco History in Photographs, 1850–2020 by Richie Unterberger, Gems of the World by David Blount-Porter; The Kennedy Dynasty by Mick Chantler; PEANUTS Through the Decades by David Sandri.
OAkmONT’S OWN “mOre JOY”
WHeN: Saturday, November 19, 7 p.m.
WHere: Berger Center cOST: $25. Theater seating Back again by popular
demand, Oakmont’s beloved hometown group with songs from our past that will make you laugh and cry in the same concert. More Joy is a deep and delightful quartet of artists that weave amazing harmonies throughout a broad selection of folk, country, blues and beyond.
mArIA cArILLO JAzz cHOIr
WHeN: Sunday, December 7, 4 p.m.
WHere: Berger Center cOST: Admission is free. Donations accepted. Theater seating Maria Carrillo High School has the only Vocal Jazz Program in Sonoma County and has been performing for over 25 years around the country and overseas. Under the direction of Gail Bowers, the MCHS concert will include both vocal jazz and holiday songs and might even include a sing-a-long.
mArkeTINg OppOrTuNITY
Lifelong Learning is looking for a person with experience in marketing communications to help publicize our exciting classes and concerts! If interested, please send your contact information and background to OakmontLifelongLearning@gmail. com.
Name (s)
More Joy Concert at $25 per person = $___________ Total = $___________ Make checks payable to Oakmont Lifelong Learning.
cOme JOIN THe FeLLOWSHIp
Valley of the Moon Fellowship (VOMF) is a bimonthly gathering for fellowship, open discussions on items of interest, opportunities for community service, and reflection and renewal. The group is nonsectarian and is welcoming and inclusive to all.
Please join us on the second and fourth Sunday of the month, from 1–2:30 p.m. in Room B at the Central Activity Center (CAC). Bring along a snack to share, if you wish, and engage in fellowship, make new friends, discover new horizons, and depart feeling renewed. Hope to see you!
nCourt Usage Committee
cOurT uSAge guIDeLINeS
Open play (daily 9:30–11:30 a.m. and 2–4 p.m.): Meet, mingle and mix with other players and skill levels. This is a fun social event where everyone is invited to come out and enjoy pickleball. Note: two courts are dedicated to beginning lessons every Tuesday. One court is dedicated to Adam MacKinnon, our pro coach, on Wed.–Th. from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
1. The first and last rule of Open Play is to have fun! If you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right.
2. All courts are reserved during Open Play. Groups are welcome but they must mix and mingle following Open Play guidelines. This isn’t the time to bring out your group to play together for an hour or two.
3. Paddle up (hang your paddle to indicate you are waiting to play) by skill level: novice, int. or adv. skill levels are very loosely applied to try to make for competitive games. However, everyone should get an equal chance to play. If a skill level is short of players, it is OK to move up or down a level. As a courtesy, let the other players know your actual level and ask if it’s OK to play with them.
4. The first level to have four paddles up takes the next open court. If there are fewer than four paddles at different levels, they may combine to make a foursome.
5. After you have completed your game, you must leave the court if any paddles, at any level, are up. Groups are welcome but they must mix and mingle following Open Play guidelines.
6. Guests: players not actively participating in a game should wait on the patio not on the court. Guest usage is regulated by OVA guidelines. 1) No guest under 18 without adult. 2) Maximum four guests per household (not per person). 3) Guests not accompanied at the courts by their hosting member must obtain a guest card from the OVA Office before using courts.
Outside of Open play (8–9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4–7 p.m.):
1. If the courts fill up, you must exit at the end of the game or after 15 minutes of practice if any paddles are up. Be aware that paired players who want to drill have the right to the next available court for 15 minutes, as do groups of 4.
2. Unlike Open Play, groups may paddle up and continue to play together when the next court opens up.
Skill Levels: Formal skill level definitions can be found at USA Pickleball Association. However, the skill levels used for Open Play do not follow those guidelines. We use a simple self-rating method to organize foursomes into fun (sometimes competitive) groups.
D. Hall
n
nPhillip Herzog
TO cONveNe IN NOvember
Silver Guys of Oakmont and their guests will hold a mask-optional potluck in the East Rec. Center on Sunday, November 13 from 2–5 p.m. People planning to attend are encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID. All attendees are encouraged to bring a food preparation and beverage to share.
Silver Guys of Oakmont provides an opportunity for Oakmont gay men and their friends to enjoy nonpolitical social, educational and community service activities together. Although the group is primarily gay men, all men living in Oakmont are welcome to join us.
greAT DecISIONS 2023
TIme TO eNrOLL!
The Great Decisions discussion groups meet nine times during February–June each year to read and discuss topics chosen by the Foreign Policy Association. This is part of a national program to expose Americans to important foreign policy issues and provide a framework for discussion about them. As part of the program, each participant receives a book containing important background material for each topic—$28 cost.
The program is open to all residents of Oakmont and their guests. Meetings are Monday mornings from 10 a.m.–12 noon in the East Recreation Center. There are usually 3-4 discussion groups of 12-16 people.
In the second half of the year, we plan monthly meetings to discuss a current foreign affairs topic.
If you have any questions or would like to be on our list for the 2023 season, please email oakmontgd@ gmail.com.
Topics for 2023 are: 1. Global Famine by Daniel Maxwell. 2. Climate Migration by Karen Jacobsen. 3. Energy Geopolitics by Carolyn Kissane. 4. Economic Warfare by Jonathan Chanis. 5. War Crimes by Francine Hirsch. 6. Politics in Latin America by Jorge Castaneda. 7. China and the U.S. by David Lampton. 8. Iran at a Crossroads by Lawrence Potter.
10:30 a.m. Now live in berger (not zooming) $3 donation requested go to oakmontsundaysymposium.org for info and updates
nHarriet PalkSusan Gorin, the Sonoma County Supervisor representing the Oakmont area, will update us with what’s going on in Sonoma County. Susan has been in government for over two decades, looks forward to your questions and will clue us in on what’s happening in our county.
SANTA
Come see Oakmont and surrounding areas through the eyes of one of our remarkable local photographers specializing in action shots. Bill will show us many ways to catch Sonoma County in action. If you aren’t already in love with Santa Rosa, you will be after this spectacular presentation.
NOvember
gAmeS
This year we will again be having our annual NYE Party. It will begin with a social potluck, then games, and at 9 p.m. welcoming of the new year. Stay tuned for more information.
AbOuT THe JuST FOr FuN gAmeS cLubWould you like to learn a new game or play an old game? Do you want to try a game before you buy it? Maybe you want to explore what kinds of games are out there? You can do all of that at the website Board Game Arena (where that they have over 500 games to play). That is also the website that the Just For Fun Games Club has been using over two years when we play online. For questions, email us at Just4FunGamesClub@earthlink.net.
The Just for Fun Games Club is a great place to make friends and play all sorts of old and new games including board games, card games, tile games and dice games! We meet every Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Card and Game Room at the CAC. However, sometimes we also play online, to do so we use Zoom for communication and the website Board Game Arena for the games. Please call or email ahead to confirm the schedule. There are multiple games being played at the same time, so you will always be able to choose what game you want to play. It’s never too serious—because we play games Just for Fun!
Come play Pan with us! Pan is a gambling card game with lots of players, cards and chips (but we do not play for money, we play Just for Fun). If you think you might be interested in learning this very sociable, “anything-can-happen” kind of card game, please come check it out!
Our next Pan game will be on Saturday, November 19 at 1 p.m. Oakmont resident, Jeri Phillips, will be happy to teach interested newcomers how to play
preSS reLeASe
Flowers and Jazz will be showcased at the Santa Rosa Symphony League’s Festival of Parties event featuring the popular Jami Jamison band on Sunday, November 13, from 2–5 p.m.
The unique setting is the Point West Flower Market in Rohnert Park at 150 Professional Center Drive. The $55 per person ticket includes a lavish spread of refreshments, two drink tickets for wine, a silent auction, music and dancing.
“We wanted to make this first autumn event something really joyful and special after our hiatus,” said Marilyn Chiotti, organizer of the event with her daughter, Tina Chiotti-Stewart. “That’s why we chose a location most people haven’t been to before.”
Proceeds from the fundraiser support the music education programs of the Santa Rosa Symphony Institute of Music which reach 30,000 youth in Sonoma County.
Tickets can be purchased online at srsymphonyleague.org or by mailing a check to the League office at 50 Santa Rosa Avenue, Suite 410, Santa Rosa, CA 95404. For more information, leave a message at 522-8786.
Pan at other days and times that are convenient. Please contact her if you would like to learn how to play Pan.
For more information, to RSVP, or to register for lessons, contact Jeri Phillips at Just4FunGamesClub@ earthlink.net or call or text at (714) 883-3126.
At the Pan games, up-to-date Covid vaccinations are required, and masks are optional.
We play Hand and Foot in person each week. Please come and join us. The more players, the better the experience! If you would like to learn to play Hand and Foot send us an email so we can schedule lessons at Just4FunGamesClub@earthlink.net. Up-to-date Covid vaccination and masks are required.
The club has a large collection of games on hand and players often bring new and different games as well. Everyone is welcome to come and have a good time at the Just for Fun Games Club. For more information contact me at Just4FunGamesClub@earthlink.net or 843-3053.
nRichard Osborne
HeArS meeTINg recAp OcTOber 17
We met on October 17 to learn from Jane Gyorgy how to use Loop and Listen Everywhere technologies for those of us with hearing loss. Well, we did it in spite of the technical challenges that ensued. This is a brief recap of the meeting.
After many logistic and technical issues, we finally got to learn what a Loop is and how to use it. When a Loop is embedded in the room, it requires a T-coil in your hearing aid to pick up the sound. Look for the T symbol on the door that signifies that a Loop exists. Listen Everywhere requires a smart phone and Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids to pick up the microphone sound.
We learned that Berger Center Loop is not working. Barbara Nelson told us about Join a Club Night and George McKinney explained over-the-counter hearing aids and told us about our plans for an Oakmont-wide educational seminar complete with hearing tests.
Lastly, we agreed that a quarterly meeting works best. At this writing, I don’t have the video links of our meeting. Watch your email for them. If you are not getting our emails, please send a note to oakmonthears@ gmail.com and I will add you to our email list.
nTina Lewis
Current Events meets every Friday at the East Rec. from 1–2:30 p.m. Please note that Current Events will be canceled on November 25, the day after Thanksgiving.
Our in-person numbers are gradually moving to where they were pre-pandemic. Interpersonal relationships are important to the health of the group, and they stimulate more interesting and productive discussions. For those who cannot attend in person, there is a Zoom component.
Important issues from Oakmont to Santa Rosa to California to the country and beyond are discussed. All viewpoints are encouraged. Please join us.
If you have questions, email tinalewis31@comcast. net or call 758-9739.
The goal of InvestOAK is to advance members’ knowledge and understanding of investment options and strategies for retirement. Membership experience ranges widely. There is no actual monetary aspect to the club’s activities none of which are investment advice.
The InvestOak club meeting will typically feature a new investment topic each month, a Market Update and discussion with your participation encouraged. If you have a topic of interest or want deeper involvement in club activities, let’s talk.
The current bear stock market may be broken, but there’s always a bull market somewhere. The presentation will review the following:
• Fundamental versus technical stock investing.
• Analyze your goals and finance.
• Liquid and Illiquid investments.
Interested Oakmont residents are invited to attend the next regular meeting Friday, Nov. 18, 10–11:30 a.m., in Room B, Central Activities Center (unless conditions prohibit).
InvestOAK meetings are held on the third Friday of the month. Members can expect an email notice in the days preceding the meeting. For further information or to join the distribution list for meeting notices contact me at Len.Grosso@Outlook.com.
nD. Hall
FrOm cLASSIcS TO cOmeDY, cOme HeAr THe pLAYS
nPhilip Wilkinson
NeW DrAWINg cLASS cOmINg TO OAkmONT
There is a new eight-week drawing class starting on January 8, 2023. Gail Mardfin is the teacher, and has more than 25 years of experience teaching art and drawing. Emphasis will be on seeing and drawing from life, not photographs.
After working on her drawing skills just one day, one of Gail’s art students said, “Wow I totally re-see the world again!”
At the end of October, Oakmont Playreaders presented three fun plays by 19th century Russian playwright, Anton Chekhov. Readers were: standing, John Dolan and Patricia Kilroe; seated, Marcel Coder and Jim Preston.
A demonstration of just how brassy classical theater can be was staged at Oakmont Playreaders by John Dolan on Oct. 24 and 31. Presenters Jim Preston, John Dolan, Marcel Coder and Pat Kilroe read three plays by Russian playwright Anton Chekhov: The Proposal, The Bear and The Tragedian in Spite of Himself A peppy version of Wendy MacLeod’s comedy Slow Food, staged by Sandy White, followed on Nov. 7 and 14. The cast was John Dolan, Sandy White, D. Hall, and Morgan Lambert. Star Power will present a reprise of the popular I Ought to Be In Pictures,” by Neil Simon on Nov. 21 and 28. It features Ginny Smith, Marcel Coder, Ron White and Star Power in a comedy about renewing a father-daughter relationship in the sometimes cruel but often rewarding milieu of Hollywood.
Oakmont Playreaders welcomes all Oakmonters to its lively meetings every Monday at 2 p.m. in the Central Activities Center.
Cost of the course is $200 per person and it will be in the art room of the Central Activities Center, from 1:30–3 p.m. The course is limited to 10 students, first come, first served!
If you are interested contact Dan Fishman by email at dfishman@pacbell.net.
There are no OAA activities scheduled for November and December. Linda Loveland Reid will give our presentation in January at the Berger. Marc Chagall is the subject. More details to follow later.
Planning and compassionate support for end-of-life transitions 707-321-6137
linda@autumnoflifeplanning.com www.autumnoflifeplanning.com
Certified Aging in Place Specialist. Safety and independence w/grab bars, handrails, ramps. Call Bill, 509-8222. Lic. #1062187. www.BayGrabBar.com.
Warming Trends has been cleaning, servicing and installing fireplaces, stoves and inserts for 30 years. Call 578-9276 for any fireplace needs.
For all your plumbing and heating needs. Local plumbers in business since the late 20th century, licensed, bonded and insured. Same day service is often available. Money-saving coupons! CA Lic. #659920. Please call (707) 996-8683 or go to www.BodenPlumbing.com.
Oakmont Onsite Personal Computer Services. Call Chuck for all things computer. VOM Rotary member, computer instructor. References available, many satisfied Oakmont customers. One hour minimum. $50/hr. 293-8011.
Carpentry, drywall, electrical, plumbing, installation and assembly. Other imaginative jobs welcome! Fair hourly rate. www.thehandylance.com. (707) 881-7292.
A personal transportation service for airports, cruises and vacations, doctor visits, shopping and so much more. Flat fee per trip. Larger vehicles on request. All drivers Covid vaccinated. Commercially licensed and insured. TCP #40474. Call Babe’s for reservations at (707) 545-2850.
Remodeling specialists. Kitchens, baths, roofing, plumbing and electrical. Fire and water damage repair. Quality service, reasonable rates. Proudly serving locally for over 25 years. Free estimates. Lic. #669482. Visit our website: www. specialtyimprovementsunlimited.com. Call today, (707) 328-3555.
Over 45 years of experience in heating and A/C. Repair and replacement. Specializing in home applications. Discount pricing. CSLB C-20&C43 510017. Call (707) 494-1877.
AnD tIle
Gavin Anderson, local Sonoma resident. 20+ years experience. Senior pricing. Free estimates. Call 935-6334.
Dependable, experts serving you and your neighbors with excellence and integrity for over 20 years. Licensed, bonded and insured. Senior discounts available. CA Lic. #854537. Find us on the web at www. onewayplumb.net or call us at 537-1308 for all your plumbing needs.
golF c ARts
Huge selection of value-priced, new, used and re-conditioned golf carts for sale. Professional repairs, service. Many years servicing our friends in Oakmont. 584-5488.
FoR All YoUR PAIntIng neeDs
Quality affordable work at reasonable rates. Interior painting including rooms, cabinets, railings, decks, fencing. Pressure washing and more. Call Michelle, (707) 378-3600.
PAInteR/hAnDYmAn
Interior/Exterior. 30 yrs. experience. Single rooms or full interiors. Friendly and honest. Morse Painting, Lic. #656306. Call Dan, (707) 799-5823.
PAIntIng AnD FAUX FInIshes
Reasonable rates, free estimates, Oakmont references. Lic. #573530. Gary Luurs, 528-8489.
c ARegIVeR lIVe-In oR lIVe oUt 25 years of experience, good references. Please call for details. Justine, (707) 280-4786.
32 years sales experience. I understand the CA probate and Living Trust laws when it comes to selling a property. Free market analysis. Call today Martha at Casa Keys, (707) 477-7168. DRE #01055567.
• Classified ads of 150 spaces or less, (payment to accompany this form) $25 per insert
• Pre-paid standing ads of 150 spaces or less, for a period of 3 months (6 issues) $120 Pre-paid standing ads of 150 spaces or less, for a period of 6 months (12 issues) $216
• Pre-paid standing ads of 150 spaces or less, for a period of 1 year (24 issues) $384
A space is a letter (including those in the heading), punctuation mark, and a space between the words in the ad. Additional $4 for the next 40 or less spaces. Whenever applicable, CA state license or certification number must be included.
DeADlIne: 10 days prior to publication.
AnD BAthRooms
Finish carpentry and general construction. Licensed, bonded and insured. CA Lic. #1044479. Call Rodrigo at (707) 975-6576, (707) 393-9748, or 843-9469.
With over 25 years of experience in all trades, we use our expertise to complete your project with perfect customer service and satisfaction. Honesty is the most important aspect of our business. We specialize in custom homes, remodeling, kitchen renovations and handyman services. Insured, Lic. #1051454. Call (707) 529-8524.
gARAge DooR seRVIces
Locally owned and operated Dependable Doors offers full servicing, repair, and replacement of garage doors and motors. Call Casey at (707) 775-8009 for all of your garage door needs. Lic. #1016951.
RePAIRs PIlIng UP? c All RAY
No job too big or too small. Heating, water heaters, plumbing, electrical, drywall, patching, painting, appliance repairs, honey do’s, etc. Quality and affordable. Ray, (707) 280-2699.
mARthA l PRoFessIonAl hoUse cleAnIng
Home, office, move-outs. Window, bed linens and much more. 19+ years of experience. References upon request. 548-9482 or marthal1041@att.net.
c ARehelPeR/comPAnIon
Oakmont resident available for hire to assist Oakmont residents in their home. $25 per hour. Very reliable, references, vaxed/all boosters. Please call to discuss your needs. Benita Jeppson, (707) 291-0032.
notARY PUBlIc
Oakmont Resident available to come to your home or office. Carol Palombino, (707) 953-8324, carolpal3@yahoo.com.
BRAnD neW AIR conDItIoneR FoR sAle
Goodman GSX140301, 2.5-ton 30,000 BTU air conditioner still in factory box. Brand new, never used. $700. Call (707) 338-1992.
General landscape, mowing, yard maintenance (free fertilizer included, so your grass and plants can be greener than ever), high weed clearance, clean-up, hauling, trimming, pruning and gutters. Free estimates. Ref. available. Tony Sandoval, (707) 321-2958.
In home mAssAge theRAPY 30-year experience with excellent references. Customized to meet your individual needs. 20% off your 1st session. Lisa Buckner, CMT (707) 529-9401, lisabuckner37@gmail.com.
oAkmont comPUteRs
PC and Apple repair in Oakmont Village. Technical services and onsite repair. Media transfers. 6536 Oakmont Dr., (707) 282-9046.
ARtIsAn hAnDIWoRk
Carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting and everything Handyman. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Since 1992. Artisan Construction: CA License #634831. Visit www.artisanhandiwork.com. Call (707) 483-4609.
ResIDentIAl WInDoW AnD PRessURe cleAnIng seRVIces seRVIco WInDoW cleAnIng co Decks, stucco, pavements, gutters. Free estimates. Call Dennis at (707) 249-3343.
ceRtIFIeD cnA AnD hosPIce c ARe I come to your home and do light housekeeping, run errands and transport you to your doctor appointments or shopping. Over 20-year experience. Please feel free to contact Maria Barrera at (707) 393 -9748 (cell).
A motheR’s loVe PetsIttIng Loving care in your home. Overnites or per visit. Licensed, bonded and insured since 2010. Check YELP. Call or text Gayta, (707) 716-6286.
BAthRooms AnD kItchens to PeRFectIon
General Contractor, John Coyle. 36 years in the home remodeling business. Specializing in Oakmont since 1986. Bathrooms, kitchens, additions. Free estimates. (415) 879-1634. Bayside Remodeling and Construction.
InsURAnce
Helping seniors and those on disability choose a Medicare health plan. Local independent Agent. Free consult. Call or text Rosanne Malta, (707) 775-7520. License #4167037.
VAlle Y oF the moon PlUmBIng
We are a local plumbing company that can take care of all your plumbing needs from service and repair, to remodels and additions. Call today to schedule a free estimate. (707) 800-2043.
hAVIng tRoUBle gettIng
YoUR gARBAge to the cURB FoR PIck-UP?
I can come to your home to put your trash receptacle to the curb Wednesday afternoon, and bring it back on Thursday afternoon. Call Dan Lennox, (707) 889-0205.
the VIne lAnDsc APIng
Professional fruit tree pruning. Ornamentals. All aspects of general landscaping. Monthly service. Call (707) 935-0519.
PeRsonAl AssIstAnt AVAIlABle
Excellent at organizing, computer and smartphone assistance/support, all admin tasks, emails, type and mail letters, pay bills, online shopping, grocery shopping, make appointments, help with pet care, companionship, take walks with you. $35/hour, 2-4 hours minimum per shift, per day. Call Jennie, (415) 505-0064.
shUReen’s moBIle nAIl c ARe
I will travel to you, see what the buzz is about. Get your toe nails cut and filed for $35 and your finger nails for $25, followed with a cuticle oil. Call to make your appointment today. April, (707) 4866193, Monday–Friday, 9-3:30. Licensed in California nail technician.
BUYIng VInYl RecoRDs LPs and 45s, jazz, blues, rock soul; old jazz and blues 78s and reel tapes. Call/ text (530) 859-3387. Email clearbluesky@ sbbmail.com.
Done with an emphasis upon a natural look since 2007. Small jobs OK. Handyman as well. Richard, 833-1806. Oakmont resident.
…is owned by the oakmont Village Association which, through its board, sets editorial policy.
The oVA has contracted with c Jm Productions to handle typesetting, layout, printing and free distribution of the Oakmont News, the latter by U.S. mail, to each home via 3rd class mail.
c Jm Productions also handles advertising for the Oakmont News.
c Jm Productions and the oakmont Village Association assume no responsibility for the content of any ads that appear in the Oakmont News nor do we endorse or recommend any product or service advertised herein.
MAIL TO: CJM Productions, 2105 Longhorn Circle, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 • Tel (707) 206-1957 • cjmprod567@gmail.com
CA law requires all CA licensed contractors to list their license number in their service advertisements. CA law also requires contractors performing work totaling $500+ (incl. materials & labor) must be licensed by the Contractor State License Board (CSLB) to work in California. For information contact the Contractor’s State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov.
oA kmont VI ll Age A ssoc IAt I on
Hours: M–F 9 AM–5 PM—Open during lunch Tel 539-1611
6637 Oakmont Dr., Ste. A
OVA E-mail: askova@oakmontvillage.com Website: www.oakmontvillage.com
Book appointments with staff at: oakmontvillage.com/staff
m AI nten A nce oFFI ce
Hours: Daily 6 AM–10 PM
Tel 539-6720
Maintenance Building (next to Central Auditorium)
con D om I n IU m F I n A nc IA l
m A n Agement (c Fm ) OVA Accounting Tel 800-585-4297
O akm ON t News Tel 707-206-1957
E-mail: cjmprod567@gmail.com
AR ch I tect URA l o FFI ce
Hours: M– Th 9 AM–Noon, 1–5 PM Tel 539-0701
6637 Oakmont Dr., Ste. A
E-mail: christel@oakmontvillage.com
2022–2023
ovA boA r D o F D I r EC tor S
E-mail: askova@oakmontvillage.com
Jess Marzak, President jmarzak@oakmontvillage.com Mark Randol, Vice President mark.randol@oakmontvillage.com
Iris Harrell, Secretary iris.harrell@oakmontvillage.com
There are three OVA bulletin boards, one at each recreation center, where OVA events can be posted. Please bring in notices to the Events Coordinator at the OVA Office. Size is limited to 8.5"x5.5".
Items “For Sale”, “For Rent” or “Want to Buy” can be put on a 3"x5" card and left at the OVA Office.
Annual Locker Fee $30 (January 1–December 31). If you wish to rent a locker, come to the OVA office and give us a check, your information and the number of the locker you want to rent. You provide the lock. We can prorate the annual fee. Daily use lockers are free.
NOTICE: Weekly locker inspections are done by OVA Maintenance. Locks could be sawed off with no prior notice and locker contents removed on all unpaid lockers. Items will be held in OVA Maintenance office for 30 days. If you purchased a locker for 2020, your rental is good through 2021.
If you have any questions, please contact the OVA Office M-F 539-1611
The following are OVA Guest Pass types and duration: 1) Guest from outside Sonoma County— up to 90 days; 2) House sitters—up to 90 days (OVA host must present written request to OVA Office for approval prior to visit); 3) Guests living in Sonoma County—2 days per card, and no more than 3 cards per month. Guest cards are available during regular hours in the OVA Office for a $25 non-refundable fee. Guests accompanied by their Oakmont host are not required to have a Guest Pass.
Call Oak Creek RV & Storage, P.O. Box 2246, Santa Rosa, CA 95405. 707-538-3230
The Oakmont News welcomes letters of up to 250 words from residents to express opinion, criticism or praise. They must include the writer’s name and Oakmont address, although the address won’t be published. See details on how to send them at https://oakmontvillage.com/submit. While letters to the editor may be edited for length and spelling, they are not edited for accuracy. Opinions are that of the writer and not necessarily the Oakmont Village Association.
Access to OVA pools is by magnetic card.
Call OVA Office, 539-1611 if you need a permanent new member pool access card or to register for a temporary guest pool access card.
W EST: 7 AM–9 PM
(Closes 7 PM Wednesdays for cleaning)
E AST: 6:30 AM–9 PM
(Closes 7 PM Mondays for cleaning)
C ENTRAL: 5:45 AM–9 PM
(Closes 7 PM Tuesdays for cleaning)
JACUZZI HOURS: Same as facility. No one under 18 years in West and East pools and Jacuzzis.
CENTRAL POOL HOURS FOR PEOPLE UNDER 18:
12–4 PM from Memorial Day W.E. through Labor Day W.E.
11 AM–2 PM after Labor Day W.E. until Memorial Day W.E.
*W.E. = weekend
Children must be accompanied by an OVA member/ resident or adult with a valid guest pool access card.
NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY AT ANY OVA POOL. ALL FACILITIES CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY.
Central Activity Center, 310 White Oak Dr. Daily 5 AM–9 PM. Closed at 7 PM on Tues. for cleaning. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas day.
Str EE t C LEA n I n G City streets in Oakmont are cleaned by the city early on the fourth Friday of each month. Residents who want their streets swept should avoid street parking overnight on those days.
Central Activity Center, 310 White Oak Dr. Hours: Daily 6 AM–9 PM. Closed Christmas Day. It is run by volunteers. All donations are gladly accepted. Materials we cannot use will be passed on to others.
oA kmont Commun I ty GA r DE n on S ton E br IDGE
For more info on signing up contact OVA at 539-1611 or email Oakmontcommunitygarden@ gmail.com. Spaces are available.
Please contact OVA resident Bev Schilpp by phone 538-4293 or by E-mail wallyschilpp1@ peoplepc.com if you would like to have published in the Oakmont News the name and date of death of your loved one.
h APPy tAILS D o G PA rk
6302 Stone Bridge Rd
Open to residents of Oakmont Village Association from sunrise to sunset. Small Dog Hours are from 3–4 p.m. on Sundays
Jeff Neuman, Director jeff.neuman@oakmontvillage.com Marianne Neufeld, Director marianne.neufeld@oakmontvillage.com
Olga Ydrogo, Director olga.ydrogo@oakmontvillage.com Heidi Klyn, Director bod.heidi.klyn@gmail.com
Elke Strunka, Treasurer (Non-voting officer) elke@oakmontvillage.com
GENERAL MANAGER
Christel Antone christel@oakmontvillage.com
ovA b oA r D mEE t I n GS
1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month, 1 PM Always online via Zoom and in-person when possible. All residents are welcome. Information to join online is e-blasted out to the community for every meeting along with the in-person location when applicable. Sign up for e-blasts from OVA at oakmontvillage.com/inside.
county supervisor susan gorin District 1 Phone (707) 565-2241 Address: 575 Administration Drive, Rm. 100A, Santa Rosa 95403 Email: Susan.Gorin@sonoma-county,org
Address: City Hall, 100 Santa Rosa Ave., Rm.10, Santa Rosa 95404
The Oakmont Lawn Bowling Club is always excited to have new bowlers. Bowling is six days a week (Monday through Saturday), starting at 12:30 p.m., through April 30. Lessons are free. Membership is $20 per year. Club bowls (they’re called “bowls,” not “balls”) are available for practice. You must be an OVA member to participate. Email the club at oakmontlawnbowling@gmail.com if you’re interested in an introduction to lawn bowling.
Mark your calendars and fill out your reservation coupon! Our Annual Holiday and Awards Gala is Friday, December 2 at the Berger! Bring your gifts for foster children to the party and we’ll wrap them. Gift wrapping starts at 5 p.m. and Pasta Dinner and Awards Ceremony start at 6 p.m. Dinner is $20 per person. RSVP before November 21.
I heard someone say this year’s Halloween Pizza Dinner was the best yet. Here are a couple of photos (thanks Diane E!).
Our election was held at our annual member meeting on November 4. Our new board, starting January 1 is: President, Janet Johnson (1 year); VicePresident, Pam Dempsey (1 year); Treasurer, Tony Lachowicz (1 year); Secretary, Mary Blake (1 year); Director, Steve Pickell (2 years); Director, Jim Brewer (2 years); Director, Gerry Macintosh (1 year).
We also voted for three changes to the bylaws: 1. Extend the President and Vice-President terms from two 1-year terms to two 2-year terms in order to take advantage of on-the-job experience. 2. Correct the function of the Secretary (the Secretary does not make the name badges). 3. Change the date of the Annual member meeting from the first Thursday in November to any date in November for those times when we can’t meet on the first Thursday.
As I write this, we don’t yet have the results of the Men’s Pairs Tournament and the Thanksgiving Tournament is yet to come. But here are most of the results to date:
Feb. 21, President’s Day: Steve P, James, Liliane. Mar. 17, St Patrick’s Day: Denise, Pam D, Marilyn G. July 4, Independence Day: Mark, Marilyn G, John J. Oct. 28, Halloween Bowl: Bob D, Marilyn G, and Elizabeth.
May 4, Women’s Pairs: Jeana, Liliane.
May 17, Open Pairs: Tom, Pam D. June 8, Vet/Novice: Jim K, Richard G. June 21, Men’s Triples: Jim K, Mark and JB.
July 12, Women’s Triples: Denise, Janet, Diane. July 26, Open Triples: Jerry G, Bonnie, JB.
August 9, Men’s Singles: Jim K.
August 23, Women’s Singles: Jeana.
September 13, Open Singles: Jim K. September 27, Novice Singles: John J. October 18, Men’s Pairs: Pending.
Thanksgiving Tournament: Tuesday, November 22, 12:30 p.m.
Annual Holiday and Awards Gala: Friday, December 2, 5 p.m. at the Berger Website: OakmontLawnBowling.com. Email: OakmontLawnBowling@gmail.com.
nGinny Smith
HOLIDAY
Avoid the holiday hassle! Come to the Oakmont Gardens on November 17 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. for a variety of homemade baked goods, crafts and lovely gift baskets.
P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization of women helping women in the advancement of education through scholarships, grants, awards and loans. All proceeds from this boutique will go towards these endeavors.
Family is at the heart of everything we do!
Wild Turkeys are arguably Oakmont’s most visible bird. They’re not native to Northern California, but once introduced to this area, they—like so many of us here—pronounced it home and never looked back.
Turkeys themselves don’t migrate, but humans have ensured that they’re a welltraveled species. Originating in the southern United States and Mexico, Wild Turkeys were domesticated by Meso-Americans by 800 BC. The Spanish, impressed with their size and tastiness, brought them back to Europe in the early 1500s, where they quickly gained popularity and inspired breeding efforts that produced many new domestic varieties. When the English colonized the Eastern U.S., they brought domestic turkeys with them—and the trans-Atlantic migration came full circle.
By the early 20th century, domestic turkeys were becoming plentiful in the U.S., but Wild Turkeys were nearly gone due to overhunting and habitat loss. A major effort was made to introduce (or reintroduce) wild-caught birds to all states but Alaska, and now Wild Turkeys are thriving nationwide. In some places almost too thriving—they have no problems living near humans, where their droppings, indifference to traffic, and occasional aggressive behavior can be nuisances. Very healthy Wild Turkey populations mean that licensed hunting is encouraged in most states. Spring is hunting season in designated areas of California (not including Oakmont).
Wild Turkeys spend their days walking, looking for food—and part of their population success is their unfinicky diet: acorns, nuts, fruit, seeds, grubs and insects. At night they roost in trees to avoid predators. Unlike their domestic cousins (recall Les Nessman and the tragic WKRP Turkey Drop), they can fly perfectly
well for distances under a mile. They can even swim.
Early spring is mating season here. Turkey hens nest on the ground, often at the base of a tree, under brush, or in deep leaf litter, which helps camouflage the brooding mother. Eggs hatch in about 4 weeks, and the babies—called poults—can leave the nest in under a day. Mom feeds them for a few days, and then they start their own foraging. The poults are playful, chasing each other and jumping on mom’s back for a ride or game of King of the Mountain (until her patience wears out).
Outside the mating season, Wild Turkeys are sociable. Males (who have no parental involvement) travel together in posses, and females form loose groups and share protective duties while the poults mature.
We all know a Wild Turkey when we see or hear one, so ID features are unnecessary. But take time to appreciate the gorgeous iridescent feathers on displaying males—almost as impressive as a peacock. Also notice that males (and a few females) have fibrous bristles that grow out from their upper chests, called beards. These bristles, related to feathers, don’t molt but grow throughout the bird’s life, reaching a foot long in older males.
Have bird questions? Want a “Birds Seen in Oakmont” checklist? Send an e-mail to bkendrick@jps.net.
WHere: Berger Center
ScreeNINg DAY AND TIme: Sundays, 2 p.m.
HOSTS: Al Haggerty, Carol Haggerty, Mike McInnis, Jeff Neuman and Deborah Davidson. NOTe: All films are shown with English subtitles, when possible, free of charge—compliments of OVA.
NOvember 13: WHeRe
A woman who raised herself in the marshes of the deep South becomes a suspect in the murder of a man she was once involved with. 2022, PG-13, 2:05.
A veteran high school teacher befriends a younger art teacher, who is having an affair with one of her students. However, her intentions with this new “friend” also go well beyond a platonic friendship. 2006, R, 1:32.
Ten fishermen from Cornwall are signed by Universal Records and achieve a top ten hit with their debut album of Sea Shanties. 2019, PG-13, 1:52.
The Oakmont Garden Club does not meet in December, but we’ll be back in January. Look for our article in December with details on the January topic and speaker.
We wish you all a wonderful, safe, and healthy holiday season!
Are you looking for ways to use your skills to give back to your community? The AARP Tax-Aide program, 100% volunteer-staffed, provides free tax preparation for low and moderate-income taxpayers of all ages.
Volunteers are needed to prepare tax returns, greet clients and help them organize their tax paperwork, and/or work from home, making appointments. No prior tax experience necessary as training is provided, however a comfort level with numbers and computers is helpful, especially for tax preparers.
The service is offered at many sites throughout Sonoma County including Oakmont! Your volunteer commitment is five-plus hours per week from February to mid-April, plus training time in January. That’s it!
You can find more information online at https:// bill0745.wixsite.com/aarpca2/volunteering.
Every year, Tax-Aide volunteers make a real difference in the lives of older taxpayers across the country. Whatever your skill set, there’s a role for you. If you want to speak to someone about volunteering, call me at (651) 210-0805.
