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The Oakmont News / January 1, 2015
Oakmont Music Lovers
nJoan Lounsbery
BASS 101 A Presentation By Karen Zimmerman
Karen Zimmerman, bassist with the Santa Rosa Symphony, will discuss what life is like as a bass player with discussion about the history of the instrument, classical repertoire relating to the bass, and an inside look of the trials and tribulations of playing such a big thing. Karen will also play “Failing” by Tom Johnson, which requires her to play and speak at the same time. In addition, Karen will be interviewed by me about her role as Music Librarian of the Symphony. She will describe her responsibilities related to that position and talk about some harrowing experiences. Karen has been of member of the Santa Rosa Symphony for 22 years. She holds Bachelor and Master Degrees in performance from The Juilliard School and has played with the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera. Karen also has an active teaching studio and has been coaching the Santa Rosa Symphony Youth Ensembles for 18 years. In 2012, she was awarded recognition from the 6th Street Playhouse as one of the 10 Foremost Women Artists of Sonoma County. WHEN: Tuesday, January 6, 10:30–11:30 a.m. WHERE: East Recreation Center COST: Free Admission
Focus Groups Provide Meaningful Information
nLisa Berman
Eight focus groups, completed in mid-December, provided meaningful information to the Oakmont Community Research Project. Marking the second phase of the research project (listening sessions were the first), comments from the focus groups will provide the basis for questions to be posted on the community-wide E-mail survey beginning February 1. Focus groups are comprised of individuals who have similar demographics, gathered in small groups to privately and confidentially share thoughts and opinions with an unbiased facilitator. Oakmont’s groups, conducted between Dec. 6 and 14, consisted of up to 10 residents organized by such factors as age (i.e. 65–75), gender and work status and were reflective of Oakmont’s own demographics according to the 2010 U.S. Census. Each focus group met for two hours and covered a variety of topics led by professional moderator Francesca Johnson of Research Arts, who was hired via a competitive process by the board to ensure objectivity and professionalism, in cooperation with the Long-Range Planning Committee’s Research Steering Committee. Results of the focus groups are being analyzed. Some general themes emerged, according to Johnson. They are: Location: The most often-cited beneficial quality of Oakmont is its beautiful and unique location, tranquility, access to Wine Country and San Francisco. Nearby family members also made this location ideal for some residents. People: Many participants spoke at length about the warmth and friendliness of Oakmont residents as a key factor in their positive experiences and as an asset to the community. Housing: For a large number of participants, the availability of single-family homes with yards, singlelevel housing without stairs and value pricing were cited as important factors in their choice of Oakmont. Activities: The wide variety of clubs, activities and events at Oakmont were a draw to a number of participants, as were nearby cultural activities. More than 180 Oakmonters volunteered for the focus groups, a higher number than expected, showing a keen interest on the part of residents in helping shape the future of their community. Questions asked by Johnson included: Why did you choose Oakmont? Which projects, initiatives and amenities should the OVA Board pursue at this time? Looking five years into the future, what does future Oakmont look to you? How can future projects be financed? The transcripts now are being prepared for review by the Research Steering Committee and the LongRange Planning Committee for presentation to the board. Results and updates will be published in the Oakmont News. Each resident of an Oakmont household is encouraged to provide E-mail addresses, along with name and street address, to the OVA Office to ensure everyone will receive the survey. These, as well as comments and suggestions can be sent to oakmontsurvey@gmail.com.
Time to Take Your Bridge to the Next Level
nKate Hill
INTERMEDIATE CLASS STARTS January 30 IS YOUR BRIDGE A LITTLE RUSTY?
The class is for students who graduated from the Absolute Beginning Bridge series in December, and are eager to face the fun and challenge of competitive bidding. The newest Friday morning bridge series will commence January 30, in the Central Activities Center. The class will run for six consecutive Friday mornings from 9:30–11:30 a.m. Cost is $90 for the entire series (includes text). Drop-ins are also welcome ($15 per session, or $10 for previous attendees). Students may enroll, individually or with a partner, at the first class meeting on Friday, January 30, at 9:15 a.m. The last class will take place on March 6. Topics will include: Preempts at the Two and Three Level, How and When to Overcall, Take-out Doubles, Cue-bidding; and How High to Bid in Competition. If you played bridge 30 years ago, and need a refresher to catch up on the modern treatments, this class is for you! We’ll review the new No Trump Range, Jacoby Transfers, Five-card Majors, and Weak Two Bids. It’s also a fit if you just want to connect with a friendly group that is happy to meet new friends and have a place to practice. Zero intimidation guaranteed! The class will be taught by me. Last year I’ve succeeded Gerry Fox as instructor of the popular Oakmont bridge programs. I have taught bridge in the Santa Rosa area for ten years, and am an ACBLcertified instructor, director, and Gold Life Master. The focus of our lessons will be on the fun and camaraderie of the world’s greatest card game. We’ll hone our skills and strive for our personal best while enjoying the companionship of partner and ‘foes’ alike. We never forget that bridge is about play! No partner is necessary. Come as you are! Feel free to contact me for pre-enrollment or for questions or comments at kate.hill@sbcglobal.net or 545-3664.
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Happy Holidays!
Mention this ad and get 15% off your To-Go order before 5:30pm Hours: Wed–Sun, 11am–8pm 6576 Oakmont Drive, Santa Rosa
707.521.9239