ON: June 25, 2022 Edition

Oakmont’s Semimonthly Newspaper

www.oakmontvillage.com/news

June 25, 2022 • Volume 60, Number 12

Party Time on the Greens A Sunday that began cloudy and cool cleared by afternoon to warm a good crowd for Music on the Greens June 12. There was food, drink and dancing to music by the Neon Playboys.

The event was co-sponsored by Oakmont and Valley of the Moon Golf Club. (Photos by Maureen McGettigan)

OVA Moves 2030 Forward With $100K Commitment Oakmont 2030 Kicks Off

nAl Haggerty

An exciting new way for Oakmont residents to join a conversation about our community’s future begins on Wednesday, June 29 with the kickoff of Oakmont 2030. The Town Hall Forum, held from 1–3 p.m. at the Berger Center, will be a participatory meeting giving residents a chance to understand Oakmont 2030 and to give input about the process that will be used.

For those who do not want to attend in person, there will be a Zoom Forum on Tuesday, July 5 at 1 p.m. RSVPs are required for all Town Hall Forum meetings at oakmontvillage.com/join2030.

The meeting will be led by Sarah Lightfoot of Keyring Consulting who was hired by the OVA because of her experience in designing and facilitating meetings to help work through complex issues, such as creating the vision for Oakmont’s future. The committee has decided to lead with a Community Conversations model. Unlike a regular Town Hall, this approach gives every participant the opportunity to express their opinion and see how that opinion fits in with other people in the room. Lightfoot used a similar model for two highly successful meetings that were held with Oakmont’s club leaders earlier this month.

The Forum will be followed by a series of community-wide meetings in July and August on two different topics.

The July meetings will look at Oakmont Today and will focus on building a common understanding of the current situation at Oakmont—what is working

Committing to “a community-wide discussion regarding the future of Oakmont,” the OVA Board of Directors approved spending up to $100,000 to hire professional community facilitators to run multiple meetings of residents to explore issues facing the community.

A resolution, unanimously adopted by the Board June 21, accepts the Oakmont 2030 Roadmap as a way to “drive the conversation with the community about what Oakmont wants to become.” Marlena Tremont, co-chair of the Oakmont 30 Steering Committee, called the roadmap’s focus “one of the most important issues” facing Oakmont in some time. She shares the chair with Tom Kendrick, immediate past president of the Oakmont board.

Goals include promoting active lifestyle opportunities for current and future residents; further livability, accessibility and safety of facilities; foster financially viable initiatives, and enhance the value of Oakmont. Also, to implement sustainability practices for water, energy, land and wildlife urban interface; partner with city, business and other stakeholders; align with the city’s General Plan Update, and include flexibility for future leaders and residents to refine plans as needs change.

The 2030 Kick-Off is set for June 29 with a Town Hall Forum from 1–3 p.m. at Berger Center. Details of the initiative will be discussed and sign-up sheets for meetings will be available. Future meetings running through August will cover the themes Oakmont Today and Oakmont Tomorrow.

See oakmont 2030 on page 3

See board on page 3

nMarlena Tremont, Co-chair of Oakmont 2030

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Two Groups Share Millar Award nNews Staff Report

The Oakmont Community Foundation (OCF) has awarded the 2022 Susan B. Millar Community Service Award to two Oakmont organizations that will share the $1,000 honor. As the Volunteer of the Year, Alan McClintock selected Oakmont Volunteer Helpers and the Caregivers Support Group for their dedicated services to Oakmont residents.

Matt Zwerling, president of Volunteer Helpers, and Vickie Jackanich, president of Caregivers Support, accepted the award named for the late Susan Millar, who was regarded as a model for volunteerism in Oakmont and Sonoma County.

Left to right: Vickie Jackanich, Matt Zwerling, Volunteer of the Year Alan McClintock and OCF President Bob Chapman.

(Photo by Jackie Ryan)

Oakmont Volunteer Helpers has provided residents with needed services and rides to medical and dental appointments for more than 30 years. The Caregivers Support Group was established in 2014 and conducts twice-monthly facilitated meetings for Oakmont residents who are caring for a loved one regardless of illness.

The Community Foundation supports eligible educational and cultural activities within Oakmont and has given more than $375,000 in grants to Oakmont clubs and organizations since its founding in 2007.

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The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

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In honor and celebration of the Fourth of July holiday, we will be having an open house on July 5th.

Stop in to pick up a refreshing “Fruit Sparkler” from 2–5pm!

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The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

board

Continued from page 1

Instructions on how to sign up for the meetings are published elsewhere in this newspaper.

In order to capture the discussions in visuals, ARCHILogix, an architectural and community planning firm in Santa Rosa, will turn residents’ visions into a series of simple visuals.

Sarah Lightfoot will be the meeting facilitator. She has a master’s degree in Organization Development from Sonoma State and nearly a decade’s experience facilitating and designing high-stakes meetings. Todd Erickson, the technical director, has been designing large-scale meetings using cutting-edge technology for 20 years.

Meetings will be led by Ms. Lightfoot using a

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor, I moved to Oakmont in 2012 when my first grandchild was born and I eagerly waited for him to be potty trained so we could use the Oakmont pool to swim together. Since then, both of my grandkids have learned to swim here and we’ve enjoyed many fun times in the pool.

But during the past eight years I have grown increasingly frustrated with the growing number of grandparents and grandkids using the central pool who are disregarding the pool rules.

As a grandparent I think it a great honor to have the luxury of time to teach my grandkids how to be good humans. I explain how to be kind, how to be polite, how to be a good friend, how to follow rules, even though you might not like the rules, etc. It is a privilege to teach these life lessons to young ones who are finding their way around in the world.

So, when I see grandparents, and parents, allowing their kids to blatantly break our pool rules, I am disturbed that they are teaching them the wrong lessons. When my grandkids ask me why those other kids are jumping in, it is hard for me to come up with a kind explanation.

Chris Finn

Community Conversation model that puts participants into groups of 8 at a table to discuss specific questions that can lead to new insights and consensus around priorities. This discussion format allows every participant to feel heard and see their ideas combined with others.

oakmont 2030

Continued from page 1

and what is not. For context, please see the Central Complex Committee Fact Finding Report available online at oakmontvillage.com/2030. Residents are strongly encouraged to read over this report prior to attending Oakmont Today meetings and to reflect upon their own experiences at Oakmont.

In August, the meetings will focus on Oakmont Tomorrow. Members will be asked for their input on community priorities for now and for future generations. The responses will be the basis for an overarching vision of Oakmont that community planners will use the material to develop a roadmap going forward.

Oakmont residents are asked to attend one of each kind of meeting. Because seating is limited, RSVPs are required and can be made by calling the office at 539-1611, registering at the office, or online at oakmontvillage.com/join2030. Residents who attend an Oakmont Today meeting will have priority in getting seating at an Oakmont Tomorrow meeting.

There are four meetings scheduled in July for Oakmont Today conversations. Three in-person meetings will be at the Berger on July 15, 16 and 21 starting at 1:30 p.m. A Zoom Oakmont Today meeting will be held on July 20 from 1:30–3:30 p.m.

Four Oakmont Tomorrow meetings scheduled.

Three in-person meetings will be held on August 2, 3 and 6 at 1 p.m. at the Berger. A Zoom meeting will be held on August 5 at 1 p.m.

Oakmont 2030 is a community-driven conversation about Oakmont’s future that will create a vision for a thriving, livable and sustainable place for current and future generations.

More information can be found at oakmontvillage. com/2030.

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President’s Message nMark Randol, OVA Vice President

Summer Swims in Oakmont

It’s summer and our three pools are open for residents and their guests to swim, socialize and cool down on a hot day.

For the many grandparents who live in Oakmont, it is a special treat to take one’s grandchildren to the pool. As you know, children are allowed to swim at the Central Pool between 12 noon and 4 p.m. every day between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. After the summer, between Labor Day and Memorial Day, children will be permitted in the Central Pool from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. every day.

With this privilege comes responsibility. There are several rules that adults and children must follow when using our pools, and not just the Central Pool.

These rules are in effect to keep the pools clean, reduce pool maintenance costs, and for the safety of all.

Let me summarize these: 1. All patrons must shower before entering the pool.

2. No food or drinks are allowed in the pool area except water in plastic bottles. No exceptions on this!

3. There is no jumping or diving into the pool nor running on the pool deck. Kids being kids, there will be some running and jumping. Please keep an eye on your grandchildren and let them know when they are breaking the rules!

4. Children under the age of 18 are not allowed in the Jacuzzis. It doesn’t matter if your 16-year-old grandson is 6’2” or your 17-year-old daughter is graduating from high school this year.

5. No diapered children in the pool, not even to put their little feet in the water. It’s only one foot away from slipping into the pool with a dirty diaper fouling the water forcing us to close the pool for a complete disinfection.

6. Guests must be accompanied by an Oakmont resident. Residents may not give their OVA access badge to their adult children allowing them to access one of Oakmont’s three pools or take their children to the Central Pool. If you are unable to accompany your adult children or other guests to the pool, you must obtain a guest card for your guest(s) from the OVA office. This is to ensure that only those authorized are using Oakmont facilities.

Ideally, everyone in the Oakmont community would abide by all the rules and when occasionally someone does not, patrons would call attention to the violation in a civil way. We would also hope that those in violation would handle the situation graciously— such as returning food to their cars or reminding their grandchildren of the rules.

Unfortunately, this has not always been the case and so we have found it necessary to hire monitors to work at the Central Pool during children swim hours on the weekends. It is not so much that our grandchildren are chronic rule violators, but the weekends are when the pool is most crowded and safety risks are higher.

If a pool monitor, or anyone else, calls your attention to a rules’ violation, we ask that you respect the feedback and address the situation.

One other note: The capacity limit of the Central Pool is 60 guests. This limit is imposed on us by the County and OVA can be cited for failure to comply resulting in the closure of the pool. The capacity limit means that you may show up to swim and a pool monitor will not allow you to enter because the capacity has been reached. I know that is frustrating, but please cooperate with the monitors who are just doing their jobs.

Don’t forget there are three beautiful pools in Oakmont. If you are not bringing children, you may wish to consider swimming at the East or West Rec. Center pools.

Thanks, and have a great summer!

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The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Men’s Bible Study Group nLou Lacson

“I have learned to be content in whatever state I am, for Godliness with contentment is great again.”

Come and join us every Thursday at 10:30 a.m., East Rec. Center.

Cal Fire Veteran Talks About Risks nJackie Reinhardt

On the eve of the start of the fire season in Sonoma County, David Shew, a 32-year veteran of Cal Fire and retired chief, told Oakmont residents it is time to start thinking about what can ignite around their homes during a wildfire.

The June 7 Town Hall speaker identified wood fences and gates, bark mulch and stacks of wood as sources of ignition that can create a direct path and catch homes on fire.

“Fires are getting larger, more destructive and more common,” he David Shew. said, adding 70% of structures are destroyed within the first few hours when firefighters and engines are not available.

New homes constructed after 2009 using fire resilient materials have the best chance of surviving a wildfire while homes in wildland interface zones have the least chance, according to Shew. “What you and your neighbors do or don’t do and what your community does and does not do directly affects the fire resiliency of your home,” Shew emphasized.

Oakmont was designated a Firewise USA community in 2018. Dave Watts, who succeeded Iris Harrell as the Firewise chair, asked Shew for advice on whether communities benefit in the end by not strictly enforcing the science which calls for banning all vegetation within five feet of residences.

“The science is very black and white,” Shew said. “This is a struggle with existing beliefs and paradigms. I’ve accepted the fact we have to work with people to find a middle ground.” He added that what people now view as attractive landscape will change in years to come.

In the Q&A, a Stonecroft homeowner was especially concerned about all the old fences in Oakmont and whether this vulnerability could be addressed as a community.

“Wood fences are very flammable,” Shew said, adding we need to find an acceptable material that allows a level of privacy and can be changed to non-combustible material. As a first step, he urged the resident to look at all the places the fences are connected to a home or building and create a break with metal or concrete. Harrell said the OVA Architectural Committee is putting together a booklet showing photos of how Oakmont residents have implemented this option.

Underscoring Oakmont’s vulnerability as a senior community with at least 1,000 residents who have health issues, George McKinney stressed that many people would need help in an evacuation. “Oakmont is at as much risk as Paradise,” said McKinney, noting the majority of the 85 fatalities in the Paradise fire were elderly.

Shew said Cal Fire is doing an inventory of communities at risk. “The goal of the state is to identify potential emergency evacuation routes.

Everything has changed the conversation within the emergency network in Santa Rosa.”

Other questions from the Zoom and online audience related to exemptions from firesafe practices for commercial space in Oakmont, creek bed maintenance and attic safety, including ridge venting and fans.

Forrest Yoga nCarol King, Instructor

Celebrate Your Practice!

WHEN: Tuesdays 12:30–1:30 p.m., Thursdays 10–11 a.m.

WHERE: West Recreation Center, Lower level COST: Series rate is $60 for 6 classes, $15 drop-in Use the poses to move out clogged or stagnant energy. Feel more grounded, steady, and strong. Allow tight areas to release with your breath. Be your best self and join the celebration of our return to group classes at the West Rec. Center.

Forrest Yoga does not require strength or flexibility; it only requires that you bring a willingness to learn how to feel authentically and respond honestly. People with injuries or limitations are encouraged to attend.

Please bring your mat, water, and props—2 yoga blocks, yoga strap and a yoga blanket or beach towel (to pad seated poses).

Fitness Club

nJohn Phillips

Leg Extension/Leg curl Alternatives (Part I)

The new Leg Curl/Leg Extension machine is almost three months old and for the most part, people seem to be getting used to it. Of course, there are those that just can’t seem to get used to its motion or action, so I thought I would give some alternatives to the machine.

For Leg Extensions: 1. Squats. Squats are great for all over strengthen of the leg muscles and the core. The center provides many different ways to perform a squat. They can be done effectively with weights or just with the use of your body weight. I believe the TRX straps are very effective for this exercise.

2. Reverse Lunges. This is another very effective leg and core exercise. It is similar to a regular lunge except you are stepping back and touch the leg that is stepping back towards the ground.

3. The Belgian Split Squat. You probably won’t see this performed very often around the Center as it requires quite a bit of balance. You place one foot on a raised platform or bench behind you, and the other foot in front of you. You perform what really looks more like a Lunge rather than a Squat.

4. Step Ups. This is an exercise that more Oakmonters should be performing. To perform this exercise, you place one foot on the top of the step and then bring up the other leg to a high knee lift and then take it all the way back to the ground. This is a great strength builder.

5. Lateral Lunges. Another exercise that more Oakmonters should be performing because we don’t move lateral very often and when we do it usually causes injury. This movement is simply a step to the side squatting to that side, facing forward then moving back to center and repeating to the opposite I hope this helps some of you who simply can’t get used to the new machine. There is always an alternative. If you would like to try one of the above but are not sure how to execute the movements, please let me know and I will be glad to show you.

As always if you have any questions regarding this or any workout issue, please feel free to contacting me at 494-9086 (call or text) or my email John@ oakmontvillage.com. I hope to see you all at the center real soon.

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nCharlene Bunas

Stay Flexible during Transition

During the transition in leadership, Oakmont Health Initiative (OHI) continues to offer “Wednesdays with JoRene” at 9 a.m. These classes are Zoomed: 967 9942 2442, passcode 573596.

Meanwhile, OHI continues to work out details for Monday and Friday classes.

But, the reader asks, “Is one day of exercise enough?” In short, “No,” say fitness experts and exercise guidelines. At least 150 hours of moderate to active exercise is the minimum.

The reader continues, “But one class a week only gives me 70 minutes, less than half the recommended weekly goal.” Here, these same fitness experts and exercise guides might answer: “The (self) discipline that formerly got you to Berger Center three mornings a week will now motivate you to exercise on your own, at least until the full OHI schedule is defined.”

As with any goal, the secret to achieving is to break down the desired result into smaller, defined steps. For example, 150 minutes sounds like a lot. But, if you come to “Wednesdays with JoRene,” 70 of those minutes are done. You have six days to manage the rest.

Time to set up a personal schedule. Having a “todo” list, written daily, offers a feeling of control and balance over those eighty minutes. Small steps taken (short walks with a friend, gym workout, swim, youtube yoga, etc.) add up to achieving big goals.

After you’ve completed each daily action, make sure you cross it off your list. For that specific day, done. Good for you! Pat on the back is in order.

Your bonus? The discovery that accomplishment is a valuable source of comfort, confidence and health.

You can do it. You’ve done it before. Now do it again.

You’ll be so much happier and healthier to boot.

A word to the wise: any exercise program needs to be set with care. Correct shoes, plenty of water are musts. Know your own limitations and plan around what is safe for you. OHI classes are vigorous and large. If you have been away from physical exercise for a while, you may check with your doctor and begin a routine with caution. Beginning in a smaller, more gentle environment could be considered, at least at first.

Specific Measurable Attainable Relevant Time-Based

Table Tennis Club nKeith Sauer

Ping pong is back!

We play on four tables in upper West Rec. five days a week. All levels of play are welcome, and we especially welcome newcomers as the regulars are now older (and rustier). Expect lots of banter and laughter. We play mostly doubles, but singles playing and practice is welcome also. No need to bring a partner.

Here is the schedule: Tuesday: 3:30–5:30 p.m.

Friday: 3–5:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 12–2:30 p.m. Sunday: 12–3:30 p.m.

Thursday: 3–5:30 p.m.

Traditionally on Sunday, 12–2 p.m. is for players who bring their own partner, and 2–3:30 p.m. is open play (i.e., just show up).

Contact me at sauerdough@ gmail.com, or 694-6574.

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The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

nDon McPherson

PÉTANQUE’S ORIGIN

Born from accommodation to disability, the Pétanque origin story is one of the most interesting in sport.

The game “Boule Lyonnaise” first appeared in France, and in Italy as “Bocce Volo,” in the 18th century. The game was physically demanding, played with large, heavy boules on a long court about 30 yards in length. The jack was thrown out from a circle to a distance of about 15-22 yards. Because of the long throwing distance, players took one big step forward when pointing and three energetic, running leaps forward in the style of a long jump when shooting.

Pétanque was born in 1907 in the Mediterranean coastal village of La Ciotat. While sitting on his chair watching a game, Lenoir began rolling some boules a few meters away. Ernest Pitiot, the owner of a nearby café that rented chairs for spectators, observed Lenoir and proposed playing on a much shorter terrain and eliminating the runups.

Thereafter, evolving modifications made the ancient game immediately accessible regardless of age, gender, or mobility limitations and the new format was instantly popular.

In 1910, “Boules Pieds Tanqués” (“feet planted”), soon to be known as “Pétanque,” was recognized as its own distinct game, played on an open terrain half the length of Jeu Provençal with smaller, lighter boules; half the distance for placing the jack (about 6 to 10 yards), and the requirement of staying within the circle with feet planted to point and to shoot. Today Pétanque is enjoyed as a casual game as well as an amateur and professional sport by an estimated 12 million players in over 160 countries around the world.

PÉTANQUE IN OAKMONT WEDNESDAY and SATURDAY

Taking one big step forward when pointing in Boule Lyonnaise.

In the south of France, especially around Marseille, Boule Lyonnaise was officially called “Jeu Provençal” and popularly known as “Le Trois Pas” (Three Steps) or “La Longue.” It was essentially identical in rules and format but frequently played on open, uneven ground and often with smaller boules. Both games are still played today.

Early in the 20th century, a well-regarded former La Longue player, Jules Hugues (known to history as “Jules Lenoir” because his nickname was “Blackie”) had become unable to meet the physical demands of the game because of arthritis. Out of his disability,

The club encourages all Oakmonters who may be interested in playing or learning to play pétanque (pay-tonk) to come to the courts between Berger and the OVA offices at 9:45 a.m. on the Club play days of Wednesday and Saturday. The club has boules to lend while learning, and you’ll be playing right away.

No dues are required—just sign up to be on the Club roster. Club play days are casual friendly games with teams randomly assigned.

The Bastille Day Fête, the next tournament and picnic potluck lunch, is on Saturday, July 16.

Jim Knapp, Debbie Knapp and Jean-michel Poulnot on Bastille Day 2021. This year’s Bastille Day Fête and Tournament is July 16.

Grief Support Group nLarry Hallett, M. Div., D. Min., Bereavement Coordinator

Grieving the loss of a loved one, or any significant loss in our lives, can be extremely challenging. But you don’t have to face it alone. We invite you to a weekly grief support group that meets every Tuesday, from 9–10:30 a.m., at 6637 Oakmont Drive, Suite B. This is an open-ended, drop-in group, in which you can gather regularly with others who are coping with similar losses and find support. The group is facilitated by a local hospice bereavement coordinator.

For more info, call me at 540-9838 or email at LarryHallett@ContinuumHospice.com.

Please join us. We hope to see you soon!

Jeff Young Resigns From OVA Board nNews Staff Report

Jeff Young, citing health issues, resigned from the OVA Board of Directors at the close of its June 21 meeting. Appointed to the board in late 2021 when Steve Spanier resigned, Young was elected to a full two-year term in April, 2021. He said he has to concentrate on where to spend his energy “and I don’t have much.” He was the board liaison to the 2030 subcommittee.

Director Iris Harrell told Young that his work on 2030 “is one of your biggest legacies.” Director Mark Randol thanked him for his work on the board and Association Manager Christel Anton thanked Young on behalf of the OVA staff.

New Committee to Set Emergency Evacuation Policy nAl Haggerty

The Oakmont Village Association is setting up a committee to research options for safer, faster evacuations in the wake of wildfires, earthquakes or other disasters.

Adopted as an emergency agenda item at its June 21 meeting, the resolution pointed to the two-hourlong evacuations in the recent past and the fact that proposed developments near Oakmont are “almost certain to add to the emergency evacuation challenge.”

The members of the Emergency Evacuation Policy and Coordination Ad Hoc Committee will be appointed by Jess Marzak, board president, and approved by the board.

The committee will research options for safer, faster evacuations and provide the board with detailed, written recommendations for actions or initiatives with the purview of OVA to speed emergency evacuations and improve the process.

The ad-hoc committee will coordinate with the Oakmont Community Development Committee and the Oakmont Emergency Preparedness Committee and with the Citizens Organized to Prepare for Emergencies and Map Your Neighborhood organizations.

Working with the OCDC, the committee will reach out to city and county officials on emergency evacuation issues. It will also work with community organizations and homeowner associations near Oakmont which face similar challenges and seek their support on evacuation issues.

Current Events Discussion Group

nTina Lewis

CURRENT EVENTS MEETS ON ZOOM

Current Events will continue to meet on Zoom only, every Friday from 1–2:30 p.m. till at least the middle of June. Discussion topics are chosen by the participants and range from local to national to international. All points of view are encouraged.

If you wish to join the discussion but are not on the Zoom list, email tinalewis31@comcast.net, call 758-9739, or email Jim Duport at jduport@gmail.com.

Your name will be added to the list.

Please join us!

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The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

nMary Blake

Lawn Bowling

INTERESTED IN LEARNING TO BOWL?

If you’ve thought about giving lawn bowling a try, email the club at oakmontlawnbowling@gmail.com or drop by. We bowl Monday through Saturday— mornings May through September and afternoons October through April. Lawn Bowling is not only fun and easy to learn, but also great exercise and a wonderful way to meet new friends.

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY GAMES (AKA SENIOR GAMES)

Of course, Santa Rosa had excessive heat warnings for our big event! But there was often a soft breeze and lots of water on hand. Jodi and Ande even brought several spray bottles filled with cold water so anyone could cool off quickly.

The games were June 10 and 11. There were six teams. Four were from Oakmont. The other two teams were from Santa Clara and Utah. Some of the bowlers had left Santa Clara at 5:30 a.m. that morning while the Utah bowlers had made the trip into a week-long outing.

Bowlers played three 10-end games each day. Every team bowled every other team in the first five rounds.

For the final round, teams were paired up based on their standings.

Oakmont took first and second place! Jim K, Jeana and Denise took first place. Jerry G, Marilyn G and Jodi/Ande took second. The South Bowls team from Utah/Santa Clara took third.

Let’s Dance—Together!

The Social Committee (Pam, Linda P and Marilyn M) coordinated food and the picnic.

The Do-it-all Committee (Jim K) helped with all aspects of the tournament including getting the Green the best it can be, setting up the rinks, and bringing donuts.

And there were so many others who helped in any way they could. Like I said, we have an amazing group of volunteers.

Thank you!

Marilyn G, Jerry G (skip), Jodi and Ande.

TOURNAMENT NEWS

Intraclub Tournament: Our next intraclub tournament is the Women’s Triples on Tuesday, July 12. Sign up, wear your glorious whites, and bring $3.

Show up at 9:15 a.m. to bowl at 9:30.

Holiday Tournament: Our coming holiday tournament is the Independence Day Tournament on Monday, July 4. Sign up, wear your red, white and blues, and bring $3. Show up at 9:15 a.m. to bowl at 9:30.

MAKING THE GREEN GREEN

Though the Green is finally looking green, it’s still more from weeds than grass. Jim K is researching artificial turf. In an online poll, there was almost unanimous support for the change.

SOCIAL EVENTS

Denise, Jim K (skip), and Jeana took first place.

The Tournament Committee (Steve and Pam) planned and oversaw the games, kept scores, stayed in touch with all the bowlers so there were no surprises, coordinated with the Council on Aging, and kept everything moving well.

nStar Power

For our coming social events, we’re asking that people bring their own utensils.

Next Social is Tuesday, July 5, 5 p.m. bowling, 6 p.m. potluck. BYOB and food to share, a guest, and utensils.

Find links, photos, and our calendar at www.

OakmontLawnBowling.com.

Valley of the Moon Rotary

What Brought Us Here?

We all have stories in our journey through life and I really enjoy hearing them, so I reached out to some of our VOM Rotary members and asked them how they came to join Rotary. Here are a few: “I was at a block cocktail party when the current VOM President invited me to a Rotary meeting. I didn’t know what Rotary was but I said yes as I was retiring in a few weeks. The speaker the day I attended was amazing. A few weeks later the President asked me if I wanted to attend another meeting and I was so pleased that I could. The rest is history. I’ve been a Rotarian for over 10 years and loved every minute of it. Wonderful friends and so many opportunities to help others.”

“When I moved to Santa Rosa in 1977, a new client of mine invited me to a local Rotary meeting. The speaker described an international medical project that was repairing cleft palate cases for young kids living in poverty overseas. My older brother was born with a cleft palate that was not surgically repaired until he was 6 or 7. It was a deformity that impaired his speaking ability and disabled him socially for the rest of his life. He committed suicide at age 39. That visiting speaker was the primary motivation for my joining Rotary. Lots of other great Rotary projects I’ve learned about since, but that one was the spark for igniting my interest in Rotary.”

“When we moved to Oakmont, I wanted to get to know the community. I had heard of Rotary, associated it with doing good things but, I really didn’t know much more. The members were very welcoming and the speaker informative. Knowing you can’t judge anything from one meeting, I attended another, and then decided to join for a year to give it a try.

“It’s been about a half-dozen years and I’ve stayed for a variety of reasons. Over the years, I have gained an appreciation of the various organizations, services, and people that serve this area. This awareness has benefitted me personally more times than I could have expected. I was amazed at the outpouring of support offered up by Rotarians in surrounding counties during the 2017 fires that hit Sonoma County. These Rotarians made it their mission to make sure every Rotarian had a pillow to lay their head on within 24 hours of the evacuations. Rotary is an amazing organization that utilizes the diversity of others to do an incredible amount of good both locally and globally.”

Maybe one of these personal accounts might entice you to drop in on one of our meetings, which are held at the East Rec. Center on Thursday mornings at 8 a.m. If you know someone in Valley of the Moon Rotary Club, let them know you’d like to attend. If not, call or e-mail Art Fichtenberg at 484-1051, email afichtenberg@aol.com.

nTerry Whitten, Instructor

Learn Basic Country Waltz in July

WHAT: Beginning Country Waltz partner dance classes WHEN: Wednesdays, July 6, 13 and 20 from 4–5:15 p.m.

WHERE: Lower West Rec. Center COST: $10 pp for single class. $8 pp if two or more classes are purchased at the door at beginning of class Starting in July, partner dance classes will return back to the Lower West on Wednesday afternoons from 4-5:15 p.m. with Country Waltz lessons. Country dancing is very popular in Sonoma County and both Country Waltz and Country 2-Step are favorites. In addition to Country Waltz songs, many of the steps can also be danced to a lot of standard waltz music.

No partners or experience are required. We will rotate partners during the classes. Also, any ladies that want to lead and any men that want to follow are very welcome.

At this time, full vaccination plus at least one booster will be required. Face masks may be required depending on the local community Covid status at the time the classes start.

Aside from being fun and a great way to get exercise, a number of studies have shown that dancing on a regular basis may reduce the possibility of cognitive decline and may actually increase mental acuity. It is definitely good for our brains, muscles and spirit!

To register or for any questions, please contact me at twhitten@pacbell.net or call (415) 265-7590. Please bring your vaccination card or photo of it to the first class you take as well as a face mask in the event it is required.

Oakmont Garden Club nPatty McHugh

PRESSED FLOWER WORKSHOP August 10, 9:30 am–Noon, East Rec., 7902 Oakmont Drive

The Oakmont Garden Club is pleased to offer a pressed flower workshop conducted by the talented Jan Lochner, a Sebastopol gardener of some 50+ years.

Jan’s craft was recently featured in The Press Democrat and she has given the ever-popular Pressed Flower Card Classes at Riley Street. We are over the moon that she is bringing her workshop to Oakmont!

In this workshop Jan will be making several pressed-flower items and show you how to make them yourself. Each participant will leave with a bookmark, a note card, a window ornament and a fridge magnet. You will go away filled with excitement to start collecting flowers, leaves, etc. and to experiment on your own. Jan will tell us what are good candidates for pressing and which to avoid and why. Your eyes will suddenly be opened to take notice of the beauty all around us and in the most unassuming things.

The cost of the workshop is $30 per person and is limited to 20 people. It includes all the materials you will need to complete your project.

This event will fill up fast, so do not delay. If you would like to attend, place your check, made payable to The Oakmont Garden Club, in the Garden Club folder at the OVA office or mail your check to our club treasurer, Sandi Bonacini, 122 Old Oak Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, as soon as possible. Your check is your reservation. Checks received after the class has filled will be returned. No cash, please.

Let’s make this a workshop to be remembered!

Note: Proof of vaccine and booster is required. The OVA mask rule in place at the time of the workshop will prevail.

7

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Oakmont Rainbow Women

nKaren Mackey and Suzanne Dibble

Celebration 2022 Oakmont’s Pride Parade and Picnic

The month of June has become identified as the beginning of the contemporary LGBTQ civil rights movement, known as “Pride.” Oakmont Rainbow Women (ORW) celebrated Pride Day on June 11 with a festive parade starting at 11 a.m. at the Berger parking lot. Before the parade started, folks added bling, flags and streamers to the vehicles.

Despite the heat, there was a fabulous turnout with 55-65 folks participating in the parade. A mobility scooter led the parade through Oakmont, followed by 20 bikes and trikes, six golf carts, and nine cars.

Participants included Rainbow Women, friends, families, neighbors, and beloved dogs. One family cluster had three generations participating... wow!

People in the parade were armed with bells, buzzers, kazoos, music, not to mention many rainbow flags and windsocks. People were pretty energized at the start.

The route encircled Oakmont Village starting on White Oaks to Fairfield to Oak Leaf to Oakmont Drive past the East Rec. back to the Berger. Oakmont residents were fabulous—waving and cheering as the parade passed by. The most heartwarming response from the Oakmont community was a hand-drawn, impromptu sign on Oak Leaf saying “Oakmont Rainbow Women, Thank You For All You Do For Oakmont!” It just doesn’t get any better than that!

After the returning to the Berger, several hearty participants continued on to Stone Bridge, on to the Community Gardens and through several side streets to return to the Berger. You can see from the picture, that we were all pretty wilted by the time the parade finished; but with the supportive response of our

neighbors, we were exhilarated!

After a post-parade rest, 65 people returned for the Pride Picnic with lots of yummy food to share and several lively games of corn hole.

If you missed it this year, we’ll do it again next year.

All friends, family and neighbors are invited to join us in the parade and the picnic.

Thanks to Robin Jurs and many volunteers for organizing the parade, and thanks to Kim Smith and many volunteers for organizing the picnic.

Oakmont Rainbow Women is open to all women Oakmont residents. For those of you who

would like to connect with ORW, send an email to OakmontRainbowWomen@gmail.com. We have lots of activities planned for the summer, so join us!

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8

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

“Oakmutts” Day to Shine The “Oakmutts Doggy Day Dog Show” hosted by the Canine Club attracted a lively variety of pups, mutts and parents to the Berger greensward and patio on June 4. Ribbons were awarded in several creative categories in addition to the three pictured here in photos by Julie Kiil.

US Postal Service Online Resources and Apps nTina Nerat

A ShiChiPoo won (and nibbled) the blue ribbon for Cutest Mixed Breed. She is shown here by Keith Kaminski.

Grace, the golden girl sitting next to Kathy Carter, won for Best Biscuit Catching.

Alan Schackman holds 17½-year-old Boo, who easily won for Best Senior.

Soroptimists nNadine Condon

Authors Book Faire on July 9 at berger

An Authors Book Faire will be held on Saturday, July 9, from noon–3 p.m. at the Berger Center. Over 20 Sonoma County writers will be selling their popular fiction and non-fiction books. Admission is free and the general public is invited to come mingle, chat with authors and buy their latest offerings.

Produced by writer Nadine Condon and the Soroptimists Oakmont Wine Country, a portion of monies will be donated to the Soroptimists educational funds for girls and women. There will also be a raffle and refreshments to raise additional funds for these scholarships.

Notable authors participating besides Condon (Confessions) are Peter Richardson (Savage Journey), Jonah Raskin (Beat Blues), Cynthia Goodwin (God, You, & Déjà Vu), Frederick Weisel (The Day He Left) and Elizabeth Vasquez (Purified in The Flames), an author who herself benefited from Soroptimist funding.

A complete list of local participating authors will be in the next Oakmont News. For more info, please contact me at nadine@nadinecondon.com.

flflflflflflflflfl

This is one of a series of articles provided by the Oakmont Technology Learning Center on the use of technology by seniors.

USPS.com has more services online these days than you might imagine. While the PO in Kenwood is usually not busy, with the current cost of gasoline, why drive if you can do more online? All the online services require is opening a free online account with login/password.

Basic USPS services include finding out zip codes, putting a vacation hold in place, doing a change of address, tracking packages you are expecting, and finding out mailbox guidelines if you’re considering purchasing a new home mailbox.

Click-N-ship has more services available than in the past: buying stamps to be shipped directly to you, printing shipping labels (up to 20 identical labels to multiple addresses), scheduling package pickups, estimating shipping costs, and ordering personalized stamped envelopes with return address and stamp printed on them. Options include setting up an address book for those to whom you often ship. Seasonally themed stamps, greeting cards, and shipping supplies may also be ordered.

One of the best services is “informed delivery,” a free app that will begin your day with an e-mail digitally showing the letters and packages on the way to your mailbox that day. This writer finds that it doesn’t have everything that will be delivered (e.g., some junk mail), but it does show a scan of the front of most envelopes and packages that will be delivered.

Logging into your account will show delivery history

with the option of giving feedback on what was not delivered.

Many of us have our bank statements and bills delivered electronically, have the bills paid automatically by credit or debit card, then have the credit card payment deducted automatically, which cuts down on “paper” mail that just eventually has to be shredded anyway.

Mailbox theft is an issue. The Bloomberg Business April 4 issue noted that California had 396 checks stolen and posted for sale on the “dark web” just in January this year. The USPS reports that mailbox-related check theft is becoming more common. Consider direct deposit of all checks.

One of the bonuses of some houses in Oakmont is that mail slots drop into the garage or front door, making mail theft almost impossible. If you don’t have a mail slot going directly into your house, you should consider purchasing a locking mailbox. On daily walks around Oakmont, this writer notices many people have outgoing mail clothes-pinned to mailboxes. USPS warns against this practice; a better option is to hand outgoing mail to the mail carrier or to put the mail in one of the big blue mailboxes before their pickup, usually around 2 p.m. in Oakmont.

If you haven’t gone to the USPS website in a while, give it a try.

For an electronic copy of this article, visit the OTLC website at www.oakmont-learning.org.

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Call 707.579.6964 for more information and to arrange a visit.

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9

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Kiwanis Club of Oakmont

Just For Fun Games Club

A Sunny Pride Day

nPhillip Herzog

ABOUT THE JUST FOR FUN GAMES CLUB

nBeverly Singer

A Very Hot Successful Shred-A-Thon

Friday, June 10, was the hottest day of the month, but the Kiwanis Club members were at the Berger Center parking lot putting Oakmonters’ important papers into barrels which are then emptied into the big shredding machine truck. It took a lot of water to fuel the Kiwanians, but the job got done.

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! Currently games are alternating between playing in person and playing online. We meet every Saturday at 1 p.m.

When in person, we meet in the Card and Game Room at the CAC. When online, we use Zoom for communication and the website Board Game Arena for the games. Please call 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!

PAN (PANGUINGUE)

Pat Veuve helping set-up for the shredding event.

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 July Pan games will be on Saturdays, July 2, 16 and 30 at 1 p.m. We don’t give lessons at the Saturday Pan game, we just play. Oakmont resident, Jeri Phillips, will be happy to teach interested newcomers how to play Pan at other days and times that are convenient. Please contact Jeri 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. Call or text: (714) 883-3126.

At the Pan games, up-to-date Covid vaccinations are required, and masks are optional.

Bicycles, convertibles and golf carts formed Oakmont’s Pride parade on Saturday, June 12. The parade began at the Berger Center and circulated through the community. (Photo by Maureen McGettigan)

A New Look Awaits in the Berger nMarty Thompson

Some eight months after work began, what’s known as the Berger Refresh is nearing completion, renewing the look and feel of Oakmont’s largest event space.

As groups resume post-pandemic activities, residents will see a different look.

A new floor was first, replacing one with frayed seams and a mix of carpet and hard surface. There are new wall and ceiling paint colors, stronger LED lighting and electronic window shades that can dim or darken.

A kitchen update is underway. It includes new countertops and cabinets and upgraded flooring. A new refrigerator, freezer and an ice-maker are being installed. There will be a new stove and a warming rack, to help the kitchen meet the needs of banquet catering.

HAND AND FOOT

Ann Isaacs, Charlie Ensley, Bob Isaacs, John Rector after emptying boxes.

Kiwanis members now know the owner of the shredding truck quite well. He’s a big help to the group. In talking to him he said he has four shredding trucks and they cost $250,000 each. Imagine how much paper is shredded each month. What an amazing difference from a century ago.

The Kiwanis Club Members are busily planning their next big event, the Carnitas and Margaritas Dinner will be on Saturday, August 13, at the Berger Center starting at 5 p.m. It is anticipated that this event will sell out fast. For tickets contact any Kiwanian or Pat Vueve at 490-6020. Tickets are $30 and include one margarita. If your name is Rita, you get a free extra margarita.

We play Hand and Foot in person each week. Please come and join us. The more players, the better the experience! Are you interested in learning how to play Hand and Foot? Send us an email so the teachers can be prepared, Just4FunGamesClub@earthlink.net. Upto-date Covid vaccination and masks are required.

For more information contact me at Just4FunGamesClub@earthlink.net or 843-3053.

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Workers put finishing touches on new kitchen countertops on June 13. (Photo by Heidi Klyn)

Up front in the main room the stage has new wooden doors covering under-stage storage. The old sound shell backing is gone, replaced by black sound curtains at the rear of the stage. Remote electronic controls can change the color of lighting on the curtains. New stage front curtains will complete the stage’s new look.

The old gas fireplace has been converted to an electronic model—it wasn’t needed for heat, and there’s a new hearth.

Room art has gotten attention: A metal sculpture will decorate the fireplace, and paintings by local artists are on walls around the room.

Much of the cost, up to $110,000, was approved by the board last August, using money from the Asset Replacement Fund.

10

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

nGary Andersen

Playreaders

Hikers mostly flat trails through beautiful Tennessee Valley. Bring lunch, water, hiking poles. Hike leader is Linne McAleer, (415) 847-4420. Leave Berger at 9 a.m.

June 30 Long Hike Angel Island State Park

June 2 Long Hikers at Napa Skyline Park led by Mary Lou Hicks.

Angel Island is situated in San Francisco Bay near Tiburon, and was once a processing station for immigrants. It is now a State Park in its entirety, with historic sites. Views of the Bay are fantastic. Our plan is to catch the 10 a.m. ferry from Tiburon, a 15-minute trip, $14 for seniors, then complete about seven miles of hiking with 1,100’ elevation gain, and return on the ferry leaving the island at 2.20 p.m.

If you’d like to linger longer, there are ferries at 3.20 and 4.20—coordinate with your car-pool. We may get creative and change some of the itinerary, so stay tuned to this space on your favorite website.

Arrive a little early to leave the Berger at 8.30 a.m. sharp. Hike leader is Martin Johns.

July 7 Short Hike Sonoma Valley Regional Park

Starting from Arnold Drive, we’ll walk around the lake, then take a mostly-paved path into Glen Ellen, stopping at Les Pascals bakery before returning on the same path to the cars. Mostly flat, four miles, mostly dirt path, some pavement, 150’ elevation gain.

Bring water, sunhat, sunscreen, poles if needed.

Leave Berger at 8:30 a.m. to avoid heat. Hike leader is Florentia Scott, hikingscott@yahoo.com, 591-1929.

June 2 Short Hike, Three Parks in Three Miles, led by Carolyn Greene.

PLEASE KEEP CHECKING WEBSITE FOR UPDATES

For more hike details, club information, photos and lots more, go to our new website: www. oakmonthikingclub.org.

June 30 Intermediate Hike Tennessee Valley—Marin County

This 6-mile hike with 1,000’ elevation gain is moderately steep in places. We’ll climb the Miwok Trail out of Tennessee Valley (in Mill Valley) to the Coyote Ridge Trail, which provides stunning 360° views of the ocean, bay, valleys, and Mount Tam. Descending on the Coastal Trail fire road to Tennessee Valley, we’ll walk to the beach for lunch. From the beach it’s an easy two-mile walk back to our cars on

Oakmont Craft Guild nHeidi Klyn

Oakmont Art and Craft Faire Saturday, June 25, 10 am–3 pm

The event will be outside Berger under the shady solar panels, featuring many local artists. Stroll along, listen to the music, enjoy food from Picazo Cafe Food Truck and free ice cream from Umpqua Bank.

July 7 Long Hike Henry’s Knob Annadel

After leaving the Berger lot, we will park at the top of Oak Mesa Drive and begin our Annadel hike via the Two Quarry, Marsh and Ridge Loop, including Henry’s Knob. Not much shade so please prepare accordingly. Bring poles, lots of water and sunscreen along with a snack or lunch. Approximately 8.8 miles with 1,200’ elevation gain. Bonnie’s Brownies will be provided!

Depart from Berger at 8:30 a.m. Hike leader is Gary Andersen, (360) 778-9604.

Movies At Oakmont WHERE: Berger Center SCREENING DAY AND TIME: Sundays, 2 p.m.

HOSTS: Al Haggerty, Carol Haggerty, Mike McInnis, Julie Ward and Jeff Neuman.

NOTE: All films are shown with English subtitles, when possible, free of charge—compliments of OVA.

In early June, Oakmont Playreaders presented A.R. Gurney’s magical, often hilarious play Sylvia about a man and his new-found, four-legged companion (a dog!) and the ensuing family disruptions. Readers, from left to right: Ron White, Dennis Hall, Marcel Coder (as Sylvia), Ginny Smith, John Dolan. Hugging in back row, Jane Borr and Sandy White.

Grandparents’ Club nLeslie Brockman, Chair

Grandparents Week Is Almost Here!

Grandparents Week—six days of fun—is coming soon! It begins with a Welcome Carnival on Sunday, July 24, from 3–5 p.m. at the Berger Plaza, and ends on Friday afternoon, July 29, with the popular coin tosses in the Central Pool. In between are multiple classes for all ages and their grandparents, including such sports as Tennis, Golf, Pickleball, Bocce, Wii Bowling, Pétanque, and Lawn Bowling, along with crafts, toddler time, painting with acrylics, hiking around the Oakmont pond, learning to use chopsticks, painting rocks, sewing, robotics, spy school, barn dances, and more.

Registration forms for 2022 Grandparents Week will be available on our webpage (www. oakmontvillage.com/ grandparentsclub) as of July 1 and in our folder at the OVA office on July 1. You may also request a registration form at oakmont. grandparents@gmail. com. Deadline for signups is July 20.

Come to our Grandparents Club meeting this next Tuesday, June 28, 4 p.m. at the East Rec. for more information.

JUNE 26 DEATH ON THE NILE

Orient Express sequel. While on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress. 2022, PG-13, 2:07.

JULY 3 THE WAR WITH GRANDPA

Upset that he has to share the room he loves with his grandfather, Peter decides to declare war in an attempt to get it back. 2020, PG, 1:34.

JULY 10: IRRESISTIBLE

A Democratic strategist helps a retired veteran run for mayor in a small, conservative Midwest town.

2020, R, 1:41.

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11

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Pickleball Corner

nDoc Savarese

Silent Inflammation

Have you ever heard of silent inflammation, which simply stated can be the mortal enemy of your health?

It can damage your heart and brain, throw your digestive system out of whack and make your joints stiff and achy. So, for most of us who play pickleball in Oakmont, managing inflammation may be the most important thing you can do on a daily basis to look and feel your best.

Inflammation is described as when the body reacts to damaged tissue and/ or infection. The lowest level of inflammation is called “Acute” or minor trauma, where the damaged cells typically heal in a few weeks. “Chronic” inflammation is major tissue damage where healing takes Cartoon by Peter Copen. a lot longer. The most common symptoms of chronic inflammation are: body pain, chronic fatigue or insomnia, depression and/or anxiety, gastrointestinal issues, weight gain, and infections.

It is highly probable that most of us pickleballers at some junction have experienced one or more of these symptoms with persistent inflammation.

It is highly recommended that you consult your healthcare provider. As aforementioned, ignoring these symptoms can have serious consequences.

The treatment for chronic inflammation usually consists of dietary and lifestyle management. Dietary recommendations may include: Tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables, nuts, fatty fish, fresh fruit, turmeric. Note: try to avoid red meat, sodas, and fried foods.

Lifestyle management typically includes: Exercise, proper sleep, reduction in stress, weight management, control blood sugar, minimize antibiotics and NSAIDS. Since pickleball falls within the realm of exercise, there is overwhelming evidence that physical activity is key to maintaining good health. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all adults get 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. The important thing about exercise is that it enhances the production of serotonin which boosts mood, improves sleep cycles, and reduces depressive symptoms which have a direct correlation to inflammation.

See you on the courts and/or in the healthcare clinic. Hopefully, not in the ER!

FEATURED PADDLE

Gamma has recently introduced the “505 Graphite” paddle. It is a very distinguishing paddle that comes in one color. It has the long handle (5.25”), length of 16 3/8”, width of 7 3/8”, and a weight of 7.6 oz. (light).

I particularly like the long handle shape which gives additional power on full swings, serves, and returns.

The neu core technology with a graphite surface excels in control allowing for a soft game needed for dinks, lobs, and third shots.

In summary, this paddle was so impressive that it is now my paddle of choice. The paddle retails for $179, but available to OPC members at the discounted price of $126.

Note: This paddle is available for demo by contacting me.

New Player Orientation (Tuesdays 9–10 a.m.): Arrangements can be made by contacting Nancy Lande at 978-2998 to schedule a session. Demo loaner paddles are available by contacting me at 349-90965.

If you know of someone in need of a card to cheer them up or for condolences, please contact Helen Selenati at 595-3413.

Singles Club

nDebra Ponts

Are you single? Join our club to mix and mingle with other singles. Our club offers a great opportunity to network with other singles that may have the same interests that you have. Develop new friendships, enjoy meals out through Bon Appetit, reserve a seat at a singles’ table for Oakmont events such as Boomers.

July Bon Appetit

WHEN: July 7, 6 p.m.

WHERE: Sonoma Grill, 165 W. Spain St., Sonoma Casual restaurant with a great patio for outdoor dining. Pasta and seafood with a full bar. Located just off of the Sonoma Plaza. Reservations for up to 20 guests, bring cash, there will be one check per table.

RSVP to Marilyn, marilyn_mckeever@hotmail.com.

Reservations close on July 1.

July Mixer First-ever Oakmont Singles Club Karaoke night!

WHEN: July 15, 6 p.m.

WHERE: East Rec. Center

“I’m so excited! I just can’t hide it!” “Sweet Caroline!” Think of your favorite song, belt it out in the shower, ask your Oakmont Singles friends to join you, and come have a blast! Remember we are not trying out for American Idol—we are just getting together to have fun. RSVP to Priscilla, proslyn49@ aol.com by July 11. Bring an appetizer to share, your proof of vaccination, key card and your choice of beverage.

NAME BADGES

Order your magnetic name badge by completing the form in the Singles folder at the OVA office.

Include a check for $9 payable to OSC.

Membership new and renewal dues

It’s not too late to become a Singles’ member! Club dues for 2022 is $12. Please complete the form below or you can use a blank form in the Singles folder at the OVA office. Place the form and your check payable to OSC in the Manila folder New/Renewing Membership.

Membership form New___ or Renewal___ Name (print first and last) __________________________________________________ Phone # ____________________________ Email____________________________________________________ Oakmont Address ______________________________________________________________________________

Please complete this form and include your $12 check payable to Oakmont Singles Club (OSC) and place in the Singles folder in the OVA office.

nMaureen Pennal

Farewell Celebration for Lee and Brinda Peterson, and Jim Corwanski

Our Oakmont Community Church family and friends joined in a celebration lunch following the May 29 Sunday Service to say farewell to our beloved Pastor, Brinda Peterson, and her husband Lee. Also moving away at the end of May was Jim, our Media Tech.

We are all sad to see them leave, they will definitely be missed! It was very special to gather together and wish them every success to carry the Word of God to their new communities. The Petersons will be visiting family members and probably relocating in Texas near their daughter and grandchildren. As “Reverends on the Road” they will be videotaping messages to continue to share God’s Word from where they travel.

Jim and his family are moving to Virginia where they bought a home near family there.

Our church has been blessed to have such an energetic Pastor these past five years and her dedicated husband, Lee, who was our Music Leader, tech support and on occasion, our Barbeque Master Chef. Their selfless loving example toward our church members has brought us all closer together as one family serving God together.

We hope you will come and visit us on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at the East Rec. to share in a variety of special messages and events that we are planning. On June 26 we will have a musical worship service led by Julie and Sylvan, and a couple of surprise musicians.

You won’t want to miss it, so invite your friends and neighbors to join you!

Attention Ladies: On Saturday, June 25 our church is hosting a Ladies Tea at the East Rec. Center from 2–4 p.m. You may bring a guest or two. If you plan to attend kindly call Jeannine to RSVP at (530) 6807035 with your name and your guests’ name/s and a contact number. This is an excellent opportunity to meet new people and share in the fun.

May God be the light in your soul and bring hope to your hearts!

Branch #92 nBern Lefson

Growing

SIR 92 instituted a growth initiative three months ago. Since then our club has grown 20%. We welcome men and women who wish to make new friends for life and enjoy participating in various social events.

Our speakers are top notch as is our lunch menu that features 2 or 3 choices plus special requests such as vegetarian or gluten free. Do plan on coming to our July luncheon which requires a reservation no later than July 6.

Date: July 12 Time: 11:30 AM Place: Berger Center Our luncheon will feature Kevin Roberts. Kevin is a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He will be speaking in a personal capacity, not as a representative of the government. His topic will be: “USAID: The American People and International Development”.

To make a reservation see our website: sir92oakmont. org or contact: wjsweeneylaw@gmail.com

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12

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Cal Alumni Club of Oakmont nLinda Williams

Monthly Cal Alumni Club dinner

The next Cal Alumni Club dinner will be on Wednesday, July 20, at the Wild Oak Saddle Club.

Our speaker will be long-time Jack London State Park docent, Bern Lefson. His presentation will focus on “What’s New at Jack London State Park.”

Bern retired to Santa Rosa after a long career in the aerospace industry, and has been a docent at Jack London Park since 2012. He leads tours to the Wolf House and the Beauty Ranch, donating about 200 hours a year to the park. Bern also speaks frequently about the park to local organizations. He especially enjoys training new docents in how to tell the tales of Jack and Charmian London. His recommended London novel is Valley of the Moon.

The cost of the dinner is $50 for members of the Cal Alumni Club and their guests. If you are not a member of the Cal Alumni Club, the cost will be $60. Non-Cal Alumni can join as a “Friend of Cal.” Dues are $20 per year per household. Donations to our scholarship program, which benefits SRJC students who transfer to Cal, and which also support the Cal Alumni Association scholarship programs, are also welcome!

Cocktails will begin at 5 p.m. and are included in the price. The dinner will be Chicken Piccata, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and garden salad.

Dessert will be strawberry cake. There will also be wine on the tables. Reservations and payment must be received by Friday, July 15.

Call me at 322-6272 for reservations and payment information.

Tasting Events Club nMihir Parikh

Unique Wines from Around the World

Want to taste and compare unique wines from around the world? Join us on July 27 at 6 p.m. for the Tasting Events Club (TEC) event at the East Rec. Center.

We have selected six different varietals from six diverse regions: • Riesling: ‘20 Donnhoff Niederhäuser, from Nahe Germany (Rated: 92–94 points) • Gewürztraminer: ‘20 TWR “Te Whare Ra,” from Marlborough NZ (Rated: 92+ points) • Nebbiolo: ‘17 Paitin “Serraboella” Barbaresco, from Piedmont Italy (Rated:93–95 points) • Tempranillo: ‘18 Valderiz Ribera del Duero, from Rioja Spain (Rated: 93+ points) • Carignan: ‘19 De Martino “Vigno Old Vines,” from Maule Chile (Rated: 93–97 points) • Cabernet Franc: ‘18 Manoir “L’Enchentoir,” from Loire France (Rated: 95 points) The retail prices of these highly rated, 92–95-point, unique wines range from $20 to $50.

As always, the TEC tastings will be “blind” enabling you to compare two wines of similar varietals based just on individual taste buds, not on price or label!

And we pair these fine wines with a selection of mild cheese, crackers, bread, nuts and grapes.

We will intersperse the tastings with brief overviews of the region, varietal and expert tasting notes. As always, the event will have some fun wine knowledge-based trivia contests that will provoke interaction and friendly competition, with winners receiving a bottle of fine wine!

Since TEC events have limited seating of 48 seats, the tickets will be offered to the 50 TEC club members for purchase until July 10. After that remaining tickets, priced at $50, will be available on July 11 to nonmember Oakmonters, who are on the TEC mailing list.

If you want to be included in the TEC mailing list, please contact us: Tastings.Club@gmail.com.

Bocce Club nEllean Huff

WINE COUNTRY GAMES

The Oakmont Bocce Club was represented by two teams in the Sonoma Wine Country Games. The twoday competition was on June 3 and 4, at Julliard Park in Santa Rosa. The Oakmont team, the Go Getters, Barbara Newton (capo), Ellean Huff, Kathy Camp, Tony D’ Agosta and Barbara Lowell (alternate) did not make the finals but had a great time. The team of Jim Tosio (capo), Fritz Spotlesen, Bob Stephen, Steve Spillman, Steve Carrigen and Bob Marino made it to the finals and finished in second place.

Congratulations!

Go Getters.

TOURNAMENT NEWS

The women versus men, Battle of the Sexes was played on Saturday, June 4. As we did not have enough men participating, we played our usual tournament format. The winners were Bob Cresta, Barbara Lowell, Tony D’Agosta, Ellie Baciocco, Jean Reed, Phil Duda, Kathy Camp and Barbara Newton.

Congratulations to the winners.

Club members enjoyed the first Evening Bocce event on June 9. Our thanks go out to Margaryta and Tony Sarran for being in charge of the event. It was a huge success.

Next up is the Independence Day Tournament on Saturday, July 2 at 9:30 a.m. at the Bocce Courts.

Tournaments are limited to the first 24 members, so be sure to arrive 15 minutes early.

CLUB PLAY

The Bocce Courts are open for member play Monday through Saturday, 9:30 to around 12 noon.

Come on out and try this fun game. The people are friendly and will make you feel welcome. See you on the courts!

nRay Haverson

Are you ready to party on the fourth of July?

WHAT: Fourth of July Party WHERE: Berger Center TIME: Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner from 5–6:30 p.m., music from 6:30–9:30 p.m.

COST: $40 per person Music will be by the great J Silver Heels Band. The crowd loved them at the Cinco De Mayo Party so they are back by popular demand!

Menu as follows: BBQ Chicken, BBQ Tri-Tip, Potato Salad, Green Salad, garlic bread, mixed summer squash, desert, lemon water and coffee. Yes, you may bring your own wine or whatever.

Get you reservations in fast for the best table.

Any questions feel free to call me at 539-6666 or E-mail me at haversonr@comcast.net.

See you all on the Fourth!

Oakmont Village Library

nJan Rowley

New Collection Mysteries and More by a Resident Author

Sarah Shankman is not Samantha Adams, but may be Emma Fine. Or maybe Alice Storey. The real Sarah Shankman is an Oakmont resident and author of 11 books, including the seven-book Samantha Adams mystery series published between 1989 and 1998.

Early fiction published under the name Alice Storey was republished under her real name. All of her books, primarily published by Simon & Schuster, were widely reviewed, including The New York Times.

Sarah has three stand-alone novels and one short story collection published between 1985 and 2009.

She is also Anthology Editor for A Confederacy of Crime: New Stories of Southern-Style Crime (2001).

In yet another incarnation, our Oakmont neighbor was editor and contributor to Atlanta Magazine, New Orleans Magazine, Fine Dining, Briefing: An American Express newsletter for restaurateurs, and Maniac: A Scholastic Humor Magazine.

So, who is Emma Fine? I asked Sarah that and other questions one afternoon between sips of sweet tea and chardonnay—she had the tea. Emma Fine is the protagonist in an autobiographical novel entitled Keeping Secrets. Emma was born in Baltimore and raised in West Cypress, LA (pseudonym for West Monroe), as was Sarah. Sarah moved to Atlanta.

Emma followed. Sarah moved to New York. Emma followed. Sarah moved to San Francisco, married, divorced. Emma followed. For details, you’ll have to read the book.

The real Sarah Shankman earned her M.A. in English and American literature at Emory University.

Before writing professionally, she taught English in colleges and high schools for 14 years. After laying down the quill (except for the short story collection published in 2009), in 2002 she returned to teaching, this time coaching students in writing successful college and graduate school admissions essays.

Having enjoyed life in Berkeley for 17 years, she married Tim Nelson, a Tax Attorney and CPA, and they merged their households in Oakmont in 2021.

To summarize: Sarah Shankman is a retired author of a seven-book mystery series and three standalone novels, born on the East Coast, raised in the Deep South, who is also a foodie and an academic.

Questions? If so, you may bump into Sarah walking the Annadel trail, having lunch at The Oak, discussing contemporary stories with the Oakmont Short Story Discussion Group, or you might drop her a line at srshankman@hotmail.com.

To find Sarah Shankman books at the Oakmont Library, check the shelf endcaps where they will be highlighted for a time. After that, look in the Mystery sections for First Kill All the Lawyers (paperback), Then Hang All the Liars (paperback), Now Let’s Talk of Graves, She Walks in Beauty, The King is Dead, He Was Her Man, and Digging Up Momma.

In General Fiction look for Keeping Secrets, and I Still Miss My Man But My Aim is Getting Better. Say You’re Sorry is only available as an e-book.

All the above books are available as e-books.

13

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Oakmont Village Association oakmont village association

maintenance Office

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

Bulletin Boards

locker rentals

GUEST PASSES

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.

STORAGE UNITS AND PARKING

Call Oak Creek RV & Storage, P.O. Box 2246, Santa Rosa, CA 95405. 707-538-3230

Blood Pressure clinic

Wed 10:30 AM–12 PM, Berger Center, Room D. Contact: Pat Hoffman, 707-799-8124

The Board of Directors of Oakmont Village Association reserves the right to select those articles submitted for publication that seem appropriate to the purpose of this association.

Condominium Financial management (cfM)

Hours: M– Th 9 AM–Noon, 1–5 PM Tel 539-0701 6637 Oakmont Dr., Ste. A E-mail: christel@oakmontvillage.com

architectural office

Need a ride? give a ride! oakmont volunteer helpers Coordinator Rides to Medical Appointments

We provide the following services to Oakmont Residents: n Transportation to medical/dental appointments in Santa Rosa only n Meals on Wheels, 525-0383

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

Tel 707-206-1957 E-mail: cjmprod567@gmail.com

OVA Accounting Tel 800-585-4297

Available in OVA Office Gas Shut-off Wrench........................................$12 Tennis COurt Key..................................................$2 Vials for Life....................................................FREE resident access card................................$25 EA replacements......................................$25 ea Guest access card........................................$25 ea

PAS Management Company

oakmont News

Hours: Daily 6 AM–10 PM Tel 539-6720 Maintenance Building (next to Central Auditorium)

June 16–30 Jan Conklin 707-539-4099 July 1–15 Bev Leve 707-539-2802

If you would like to be a volunteer, please call 539-8996. Donations to Oakmont Volunteer Helpers are appreciated and tax deductible.

Mail your check payable to Oakmont Volunteer Helpers, 6637 Oakmont Dr., Ste. A, Santa Rosa, CA 95409. Thank you.

Mon.–Fri. medical rides before 9 AM or after 4 PM are subject to limited volunteer driver availability.

No service on weekends or holidays. Please call at least three full working days prior to appointment.

We regret that we are unable to provide either wheelchair or emergency service.

Letters to the Editor Writer Guidelines

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.

POOLS & JACUZZIS

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.

West: 7 AM–9 PM (Closes 7 PM Wednesdays for cleaning) East: 6:30 AM–9 PM (Closes 7 PM Mondays for cleaning) Central: 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: Jan. 14 to April 1: Weekends and holidays only: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

April 2 to May 27: Daily: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

May 28 to Sept. 5: Daily: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Sept. 6 to Nov. 27: Daily: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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.

FITNESS CENTER

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.

Street Cleaning

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.

Library

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.

oakmont community garden on stonebridge

For more info on signing up contact OVA at 539-1611 or email Oakmontcommunitygarden@ gmail.com. Spaces are available.

Passages

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.

happy tails dog park

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 and Wednesdays.

Public Transportation Available in Oakmont CityBus #16 bus takes residents to n Sonoma County Transit #30 bus goes to 5 different shopping centers weekday Memorial and Kaiser Hospitals and downtown mornings and around Oakmont afternoons. Santa Rosa. Returns via Oakmont to Sonoma. n

n

Schedules available at OVA office.

Hours: M–F 9 AM–Noon, and 1–4 PM Tel 539-5810 6572 Oakmont Dr., Ste. A (for Association Maintained Homes)

2022–2023 OVA board of Directors 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 Jeff Neuman, Director jeff.neuman@oakmontvillage.com Marianne Neufeld, Director marianne.neufeld@oakmontvillage.com Jeff Young, Director jeff.young@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 Board Meetings

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.

How to Contact Your Local Officials 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 City Councilwoman Dianna MacDonald District 3 Email: dmacdonald@srcity.org Address: City Hall, 100 Santa Rosa Ave., Rm.10, Santa Rosa 95404

be on Ova E-mail List Know what’s going on in Oakmont.

You’ll receive the weekly “Inside Oakmont” newsletter, Board Meeting notices and agendas, special notices and meeting announcements. To join the OVA’s e-mail list, visit oakmontvillage.com/inside and enter your information to subscribe.

14

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Jewish Interest Group

nHoward Sidorsky

Antisemitism and BDS topic for the second JIG meeting

The Jewish Interest Group (JIG) held its second meeting that was very well attended, with more than 50 attendees. The focus of the meeting was getting to know each other and socializing. The attendees sat around eight tables with 6 or 7 people at each table.

Each group discussed what they especially like about Judaism. Some common themes identified included Jewish history, tradition, food, ethics, a sense of belonging, oppression, Yiddishkeit and immediate connection to Jewish strangers.

For the next JIG meeting, scheduled for July 17, at 2 p.m. in the East Rec. Center, we will have Dr.

Michael Harris discuss rising antisemitism over the past several decades that is a major concern for the American Jewish community. A major platform by which antisemitism is promoted is the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.

This talk will review both the history of the BDS movement and how it presents itself on university campuses, in communities and in the political arena, and also will review the current status of Ethnic Studies in California schools. Most importantly, we’ll talk about what individuals can do about both of these.

Dr. Michael Harris was one of the founders of San Francisco Voice for Israel, which became the Bay Area

chapter of StandWithUs. He has spoken about Israel at synagogues, churches, political groups and senior citizen centers, as well as standing up for Israel against anti-Israel demonstrators on the streets of the Bay Area.

He has appeared on radio and television news reports as a local spokesperson for StandWithUs and SF Voice for Israel. His book Winning a Debate with an Israel Hater had its second edition published in November of 2018.

He has recently moved to Sonoma County, having retired from being a pediatrician in Marin.

Anyone interested in joining the JIG should contact me at howard@sidorsky.com. Any resident in Oakmont is welcome to become a member or attend a meeting.

CLASSIFIEDS BAY GRAB BAR

FOR ALL YOUR PAINTING NEEDS

GARDENING

VALLEY OF THE MOON PLUMBING

FIREPLACE CLEANING AND SERVICE

PAINTER/HANDYMAN

DECKS, FENCES, KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS

AND HOSPICE CARE

Certified Aging in Place Specialist.

Safety and independence w/grab bars, handrails, ramps. Call Bill, 509-8222. Lic. #1062187. www.BayGrabBar.com.

Quality affordable work at reasonable rates. Interior painting including rooms, cabinets, railings, decks, fencing. Pressure washing and more. Call Michelle, (707) 378-3600.

Warming Trends has been cleaning, servicing and installing fireplaces, stoves and inserts for 30 years. Call 578-9276 for any fireplace needs.

Interior/Exterior. 30 yrs. experience.

Single rooms or full interiors. Friendly and honest. Morse Painting, Lic. #656306. Call Dan, (707) 799-5823.

BODEN PLUMBING, HEATING AND AIR

ERIC WILSON, GENERAL CONTRACTOR

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.

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.

COMPUTER OOPS??

ONE WAY PLUMBING, INC.

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.

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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.

Carpentry, drywall, electrical, plumbing, installation and assembly. Other imaginative jobs welcome! Fair hourly rate. www.thehandylance.com. (707) 881-7292.

RESIDENTIAL WINDOW AND PRESSURE CLEANING SERVICES SERVICO WINDOW CLEANING CO.

BABE’S TRANSPORT

CARPET, UPHOLSTERY AND TILE CLEANING

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.

GOLF CARTS

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.

Decks, stucco, pavements, gutters. Free estimates. Call Dennis at (707) 249-3343.

Gavin Anderson, local Sonoma resident.

20 years experience. Senior pricing. Free estimates. Call 935-6334.

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.

Done with an emphasis upon a natural look since 2007. Small jobs OK. Handyman as well. Richard, 833-1806.

Oakmont resident.

Finish carpentry and general construction.

Licensed, bonded and insured. CA Lic. #1044479. Call Rodrigo at (707) 975-6576, (707) 393-9748, or 843-9469.

REPAIRS PILING UP? CALL 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.

CERTIFIED PROBATE REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS

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.

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 in the Thursday afternoon. Call Dan Lennox, (707) 889-0205.

DECLUTTER-IT

I specialize in downsizing and decluttering homes. I build a personal relationship with you to make this process a positive experience. Compassionate, understanding and non-judgmental.

We decide together what to keep, sell or donate. When we are done you will feel so much lighter. Call Kathy, (941) 421-2483.

Website: www.declutter.net.

NOTARY PUBLIC

Oakmont Resident available to come to your home or office. Carol Palombino, (707) 953-8324, carolpal3@yahoo.com.

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.

I come to your home and do light housekeeping, run errands and transport you to your doctor appointments or shopping. Please feel free to contact Maria Barrera at (707) 393 -9748 (cell).

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.

HAVE YOUR HOME LOOK NEW AGAIN!

Bayside Remodeling and Construction.

Licensed, insured, bonded. 35 years of construction experience. Specializing in Oakmont since 1986. Kitchens, bathrooms, additions—we do it all!

Client references. Free consultations and estimates. General Contractor, John J. Coyle, (415) 879-1634.

TONY’S GARDENING SERVICES

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.

CAREGIVER/PERSONAL ASSISTANT

I am a caregiver with 20-year experience.

My services include: transportation for errands/appointments, help paying bills, shopping, housekeeping, gardening, personal care, etc. Lisette Lewis, (707) 228-7320.

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.

PART TIME DRIVERS WANTED

Babe’s Transport is looking to add one or two more drivers to our team. No experience required, great for retired individuals. Must have a valid CA driver’s license, be fully vaccinated against COVID. Must be friendly, have a strong work ethic and be reliable. Divers would be picking up passengers to and from airports, must be okay with driving to SFO and Oakland.

Pick which days and time you want to work. Great way to make some extra cash, flexible schedule, work only when you want. We are in located in Oakmont.

Please call (707) 545-2850 for more information.

PAINTING AND FAUX FINISHES Reasonable rates, free estimates, Oakmont references. Lic. #573530.

Gary Luurs, 528-8489.

OAKMONT COMPUTERS

PC and Apple repair in Oakmont Village.

Technical services and onsite repair.

Media transfers. 6536 Oakmont Dr., (707) 282-9046.

To place an ad, contact: CJM Productions 2105 Longhorn Circle Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 206-1957 cjmprod567@gmail.com

15

The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022

Oakmont Birders

Canine Club

nRandi Hulce

OakMutt “Just for Fun” Doggy Day filled the Berger Greensward

OakMutt “Just for Fun” Doggy Day filled the Berger greensward on Saturday, June 4th. A little bit of drizzle didn’t last long enough to dampen the doggies or humans’ spirit. The judges had some difficult deliberations to make, especially in highly competitive categories such as Prettiest Eyes and Cutest Mixed Breed. Big thank-you to the judges: Christel Antone, OVA Manager; Anita Roraus, OVA Events Coordinator, and Randi Hulce, Canine Club Secretary.

July and August. The walk is approximately 1–2 miles (Round Trip). This is a casual walk; go at your own pace or sprint to the finish line, if you wish!

Remember to bring water for yourself and your pup and wear comfortable walking shoes. Hope to see you there in July.

Here are future dates for Woofers Yappy Hour Dog Walks: Monday, July 11: 10 a.m., West Rec. Picnic Area Wednesday, July 20: 10 a.m., East Rec. Parking Area Small Dog Hour continues every Sunday, 34 p.m. and every Wednesday, 3–4 p.m. at Happy Tails Dog Park. All dog owners with breeds larger than 25lbs. are kindly requested to observe the 2-hour window per week for small dogs. Small dog owners see this as a safety issue, so you are encouraged to show respect for their concerns; especially since the Dog Park is open all other hours of the day and all days of the week for everyone to enjoy!

Rattlesnake Sightings on the Increase

2022 Judges.

An even bigger thank-you goes out to organizer and Club President, Paula Lewis, and all the volunteers who worked hard to make the 2022 Dog Show a great success! Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, over 20 raffle prizes were handed out to attendees throughout the show.

The following dogs went home with blue ribbons: 1. Best Costume—Misty; her human is Cindi Doell 2. Best Senior—Boo; his human is Alan Schackman 3. Best Retriever—Murphy; his human is Jan Young 4. Prettiest Eyes—Casey; his human is Larry Maniscalco 5. Best Dog Buddies—“The Golden Girls” Cricket and Zuzu; their humans are Donna Forst and Barbara Hopp

Here is a link to an article from the June 2022 Sonoma County Regional Parks Newsletter by Stephen Nett titled “Tips for Hiking in Rattlesnake Country.” Go to the link to learn more: https://parks.sonomacounty. ca.gov/learn/blog/park-blogs/snakes-on-a-trailtips-for-hiking-in-rattlesnake-country.

Remember they are probably more afraid of you than you are of them; but stay alert!

Woof!

HEARS

Hearing, Education, Advocacy, Research, Support nRichard Osborne

Meeting Announcement

Golden Girls best buddies.

6. Cutest Mixed Breed—Daphne; his human is Keith Kaminski 7. Best Biscuit Catcher—Grace; her human is Kathy Carter 8. Happiest Dog with the Waggiest Tail—Domino; her human is Judy Ornelas You can see photos of the dog show and all the winners at the Canine Club website at www.oakmontcanineclub.org.

Save The Date

Last Dog Walk Yappy Hour was Friday, June 24.

If you missed it don’t worry; we are doing more in

Did you know that our Oakmont facilities have built-in provisions for hearing loss? At our next HEARS meeting at 4 p.m. on August 15, East Rec., you will learn about “The Loop” and “Listen Everywhere” from Jane Gyorgy, and how to use them. This meeting is for you! You will learn how to use OVA facilities and which aid those with hearing loss. Please RSVP oakmonthears@gmail.com.

To use “Listen Everywhere,” please download the app to your phone before the meeting (see screenshot below) and bring your ear pods to the meeting.

If you need help downloading an App, come to the meeting where Jane will show you how.

The HEARS Club mission is to help Oakmont residents deal with the commonly shared issue of hearing loss. The HEARS club strategies are to: • Conduct informational meetings on hearing issues and state-of-the-art equipment; • Publish articles on hearing related issues in the Oakmont News; • Distribute information on hearing issues; • Help Oakmont meeting and activity leaders to achieve healthy hearing environments, e.g., Captions; • Advocate for improved OVA facilities and services including audio systems, room acoustics and arrangements.

nBarbara Kendrick

The Swallows of Summer

Summer in this area is not the most productive time for bird watching, which makes swallows especially welcome. Several species can be seen all summer long here and are fun to watch.

How can you tell you’re seeing a swallow? If you notice several small birds that are wheeling and darting back and forth through the air, in perpetual aerobatic motion, good chance they’re swallows.

Particularly in the early morning and evening, over the golf course or any water feature (like the East Rec. pond), they go in tireless pursuit of flying insects, which make up nearly their entire diet. Most of their waking hours are spent on the move, beaks wide open, sometimes high in the air, sometimes swooping low over grass or water to grab the next meal, which they eat without missing a wing beat.

While it’s exhilarating to watch swallows in their aerial dance, another treat comes in seeing them standing still. They do land occasionally on utility wires or tree snags, where you can inspect them with binoculars. And in the late spring and early summer, you can get a good view of them as they come to their nests, which they make either in nest boxes or in abandoned woodpecker holes or other natural crevices in trees. If you have a nest box up for bluebirds, you may find either of these swallows using it.

The most attractive of our swallows are the Violet-Green and the Tree varieties.

The Barn Swallow is nice-looking too, but I’m only allowed two photos.

When you get a chance to observe one close up and in good light, the male VioletGreen Swallow is a Violet-Green Swallow. stunning bird with an unexpected combination of colors: a green head, a greenish-blue back, and violet patches on the upper wings and tail. The breast is solid white, and the white extends up the throat and face above the eye.

The male Tree Swallow has an iridescent blue back and head and a bright white breast, but the white ends before the eye, giving it a dark face, unlike the VioletGreen. This difference is very helpful in telling the two swallows apart, Tree Swallow. especially when you don’t have a good view of their colorful backs.

Currently a family of Violet-Green Swallows is nesting in a hole in an old oak tree by our house.

As sunset nears, the swallows’ last flights of the day overlap with the local bats’ first, with everyone zigzagging through the air at top speed after bugs. It’s easy to imagine a bit of cross-species showing-off going on: “Check this out, you bats!”

Like birds and bird watching? Join the Oakmont Birders mailing list by contacting bkendrick@jps. net. Questions about birds? Want a “Birds Seen in Oakmont” checklist? Send an e-mail.

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The Oakmont News / June 25, 2022