Features
The Oakmont Golf Course is in Trouble
Dear Observer: The Oakmont Golf Course is in trouble and needs money to stay alive. Nationwide, golf courses are closing. The golf industry calls the closures of 350+ courses (2016-2017) a “market correction”. There are too many courses and a dwindling number of players. OGC’s situation reflects this trend. Despite marketing programs, cost-cutting, and changes…
Read MoreOakmont’s half-century of prosperity tied to Santa Rosa annexation
“The Big Change of recent years is Santa Rosa’s “discovery” of Oakmont. A surprisingly large number of longtime Santa Rosa residents — some born-and-raised, others who been here three decades or more tucked into the hills of Montecito and Holland Heights — have found their not-too-big, not-too-much yard and dwellings in — yes — Oakmont.…
Read MoreAs we Enter the Fire Season – Remembering the October Fires [VIDEO]
Today marks the seven month anniversary of the October wildfires. It is significant in that it also marks the beginning of the long dry hot summer season when the grasses begin to turn the golden brown that California is known for. The green grass provided a beautiful contrast to the black ash from the fires.…
Read MoreRecognition and Thanks
Dear Observer: Four years ago, the sitting board appointed a committee whose task was to was to find a location for pickleball courts. Since this Ad-Hoc Pickleball Committee consisted of only pickleball players or tennis players, neither of whom wanted to share courts, the only site considered was the CAC. During the ensuing years, over…
Read MoreOakmont Wildlife: An all-star cast
It was late afternoon when we came to the tee box of the fourth hole on the East Course. The sun was hitting the ridgeline; golden streaks of sunlight turning the empty course an emerald green. I was playing with three guys who were in wine country for a corporate meeting and were enjoying a…
Read MoreLast day for opponents to challenge the City’s pickleball permit decision
Dear Observer: I have just, and for the first time – joined a social forum like the Oakmont Observer. I have never expressed an opinion about the bewildering changes of writers, contributors and policies of Oakmont. My strong view is that persons who present themselves or are selected as writers/journalists MUST show that they can…
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