HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SENIOR LIVING
The age of connection
Staying active and engaged is vital for health and wellness as we age
Inside: Elder Fraud • Tech Talk Poggio • Ice Baths • Vine Wise Vaccine Rates • Napa Insider
Health, Wellness and Senior Living Issue 2025
$4.95
Your care. Your way. Health care should be hassle-free. At Kaiser Permanente, it is. With connected teams and flexible ways to access care, it’s easy to get the support you need to stay healthy. Learn more at kp.org/santarosa
For all that is Sonoma County. For all that is you.
K
Investment Management
VISIONARY WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Our mission is simple: to be the trusted primary advisor and wealth manager for individuals and families who are seeking long term financial security and wish to use their personal and financial resources to make their lives more meaningful and productive for themselves, their families and their community.
Wealth Planning
Above all else, we work as your team to create an integrated financial plan. Contact us today to learn more.
Family Office
4 NorthBaybiz 5T WEALTH, LLC • 595 COOMBS STREET, NAPA, CA 94559 • (707) 224-1340 • 5TWEALTH.COM February 2025
February 2025 • Volume 50 • Number 2 CONTENTS
50 YEARS OF BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
20
LEAD STORY 20 The Age of Connection Jessica Zimmer Part of aging healthfully is socialization and activities
FEATURE STORIES 28 Oldest Tricks in the Book Judith M. Wilson How to protect seniors from elder fraud 36 Old Enough to Know the SCORE Jean Saylor Doppenberg Business mentors pass along their expertise 42 Inoculating Against Misinformation Judith M. Wilson Despite some skeptics, vaccine rates are on the rise 48 Shock and Ahh … Janet Perry
WORK/LIFE 16 Hush Hybrid 17 North Bay Bucket List
Ice-water plunges can be a thrilling and chilling path to wellness
54 Jitter Bug
Jessica Zimmer Why everyone’s losing sleep over the health effects of caffeine
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 5
68
27
70
19
COLUMNS 11
DEPARTMENTS 12 The 707
Editor's Note Jason Walsh Health, wellness and active aging Only In Marin Bill Meagher Books close on Marin Economic Forum Tech Talk Michael E. Duffy ChatGPT and AI are advancing at a rapid pace
The latest news from Sonoma and Napa counties
19
13
The 415 The latest news from Marin County
27
18
The Month In Numbers A look at the key figures shaping life in the North Bay
35
63
Econ 101 Robert Eyler Health care and the local economy In the Kitchen John Ash Crab—the ‘deviled’ is in the details
What’s Happening Upcoming North Bay events Dine Wise Jason Walsh Poggio Trattoria in Sausalito Great Tastes Alexandra Russell Wilson Winery of Dry Creek
68
61
62
Napa Insider Christina Julian Tariffs, taxes and tourism in Wine Countr y
70
67
Vine Wise Adam Lee In search of the ‘perfect’ wine
74
Beyond the Boardroom Rosie Padilla Joe O'Hehir, CEO of Vivalon
NorthBay biz (ISSN No. 1542-3549: USPS 097-770) is owned and published monthly (plus three bonus issues annually) by North Bay Media Group, LLC. Editorial offices are at 3392 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95403 USA: (707) 528-4434. Sub- scription price is $35 per year. Periodicals Postage Paid at Santa Rosa, CA 95402 and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2022, NorthBay biz. Reproduction of this issue in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without written permission by the publisher. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NorthBay biz, 3392 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95403 USA.
Printed by Publication Printers Corp., an FSC Certified printer. Please recycle this magazine.
6 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
POWERING YOUR BUSINESS
Expert Commercial Solutions in HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, and Solar. Unlock the full potential of your business with our comprehensive suite of commercial services. From planning, installation, and maintenance, to ensuring efficient energy usage, we’ve got you covered. Our team of experts specializes in solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. With over 90 years of experience in the North Bay, and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, Ongaro & Sons is here to optimize your workspace for success.
(707) 361-7456 ONGAROANDSONS.COM LICENSE #215233
Trust us to keep your business running smoothly, reliably, and sustainably.
A LEADING DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY DEDICATED TO PROPELLING BUSINESSES TO ONLINE SUCCESS.
Celebrating 50 Years
Publisher
Lawrence Amaturo
Editor-in-Chief
Jason Walsh
Associate Editor
Rosie Padilla
Contributing Editor
Bill Meagher
Design Director
Anne Schenk
Administrative Assistant
Jodi Pasquini
Marketing Consultant
Lori Rooney
Writers Janet Perry Janis Mara Jason Walsh Jean Saylor Doppenberg Jessica Zimmer Judith M. Wilson Rosie Padilla
Why Choose Waterdrop Digital: • Innovation: We stay current with digital trends to offer cutting-edge solutions. • Results: Our data-driven approach maximizes your ROI. • Dedication: Our passionate team is committed to your success. • Client-Centric: We tailor strategies to your unique goals and audience. Choose Waterdrop Digital. Your partner in digital success.
Columnists Adam Lee Alexandra Russell Bill Meagher Christina Julian Jason Walsh John Ash Michael E. Duffy Robert Eyler Photographers Duncan Garrett
We specialize in SEO, PPC advertising, content marketing, email marketing, web design and more. Our results-driven team combines innovation and strategy to keep you ahead of the competition.
Helping grow your business isn’t just something we do .... it’s all we do!
Call us at 707-284-9176 or visit waterdropdigital.com
8 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
People are at the Heart of What We Do.
EXCHANGEBANK.COM
Exchange Bank customer since 2018
Books Are
Portable Magic
Remember being read to as a child? M and what it felt like leaning into her, while she read aloud to me. The pages of those books she read transported us to faraway places—real and imaginary—and taught me about life and oPened my mind to all the possibilities. So when I became a mother, I began reading to my kids. And now I’m reading to my grandchildren every chance I get. As for my mom, now a great-grandmother, she still takes great joy in reading to the kids whenever she visits. Remember to take time every chance you get—eat, play, read. Reading helps build language and thinking skills, develops a child’s imagination and empathy for others, achieve better in school, and it’s a great way to spend time together. And best of all, reading aloud to your child makes memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. That’s what my mother was doing years ago when she took the time to read aloud to me. y mother read aloud to me, and one of my favorite books was Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White. But what I remember most was the sound of her voice, the rhythm of the words
Read on Sonoma!
“For more than 40 years, we’ve protected people from the elements. Now it’s time to help our kids in the community.” — Barbie Simpson, Owner and President
Put Your Trust In Us
Celebrating more than 40 years as a family owned business. Our team is here to meet all of your HVAC needs. 707-576-150 • www.simpsonsheetmetal.com • Santa Rosa, CA
Editor's Note
The path toward health, wellness and active aging
P erspectives change as we grow older. Take, for instance, the simple easy to make, ingredient-flexible, relatively inexpensive, diet-friendly, convenient for on-the-go. In a world with fewer and fewer unblemished success stories, the sandwich is literally the best thing since sliced bread. Then just a couple of years ago the concept of the “sandwich generation” sandwich. For most of my life, the idea of a sandwich has been wildly positive: made a comeback. And my view of the popular lunchtime staple changed—while it’s great being the eater, it ain’t so easy being the meat. The “sandwich generation” was coined in the early 1980s by Dorothy Miller and Elaine Brody to describe middle-aged people who simultaneously had dependent children and dependent parents to care for. I joined their ranks last
generations in their careers to the importance of staying vigilant about today’s bad actors using new technologies to further their schemes of elder fraud—staying active, engaged and aware is critical in navigating those golden years. In this issue, we not only shine a spotlight on senior-living concerns, but also toward general wellness practices on the radar of local residents of all ages. From the growing trend of ice-water baths and a cautionary tale of over-caffeinating to potential threats to vaccine acceptance at the expense of our most vulnerable.
People are living longer than ever before, and that calls for a change in thinking about long-term health—what choices and practices can we commit to in youth or middle age that will lead to healthful, active lives decades down the road? The answers are myriad—and offer no guarantees. So stay hydrated and “eat the rainbow” North Bay. The path to wellness is long, winding and has its share of detours. But at least you’ll get your steps in. g
year when my dad, 86, moved into assisted living, and I became his power of attorney. The early-stage dementia he’d been diagnosed with only a couple years before had gotten to the point where he could no longer live on his own. Now, I handle his bills and other financials, medical appointments, around-town errands, and anything else outside the services of his memory-care home. Meanwhile, I’m handling those same responsibilities (and more) for my own kids. So now I’m in a sandwich—and there’s a mouth to feed coming at me from every direction. With my dad’s situation, more and more I’m attuned to the life practices that ease the challenges of growing old in the North Bay. From social elements like finding community among peers and mentoring younger
—Jason Walsh, editor
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 11
The 707
Sports, academic programs axed at SSU Sonoma State University will eliminate all sports programs, as well as positions for 46 faculty, four administrators and 12 staff as part of a sweeping series of cuts intended to address an estimated $23.9 million budget deficit. The austerity moves were announced in a Jan. 22 message to the campus community from SSU’s Interim President Emily F. Cutrer, who described the news as “sobering.” Additionally, the school is eliminating multiple degree programs, including: Administrative Services Credential in ELSE; Art History BA; Art Studio BFA; Dance BA; Earth and Environmental Sciences BA; Economics BA; Education Leadership MA; English MA; French BA; Geology BS; German Minor; Global Studies BA; History MA; Interdisciplinary Studies BA; Interdisciplinary Studies MA; Philosophy BA; Physical Science BA; Physics BA; Physics BS; Public Administration MPA; Spanish MA; Theatre Arts BA; Women and Gender Studies BA. Departments identified for closure include art history, economics, geology, philosophy, theater/dance and women and gender studies. “I know this is unsettling and difficult news for our campus community,” she continued. “I am keenly aware of its human impact, and how individuals, families, relationships and communities are affected by such news. I understand that no amount of explanation or necessity makes any of us feel better.” Still, she said she believes the cuts are necessary to ensure the long-term fiscal stability of the school.— NBb staff
Windsor casino moves forward The Shiloh Resort and Casino is coming to Windsor. That was the decision Jan. 13 by the U.S. Department of the Interior, which issued a “record of decision” greenlighting the casino and paving the way for development of the 68-acre site, on an unincorporated parcel at Shiloh Road and Old Redwood Highway, into a 400-room hotel and 530,000-square-foot gambling floor. The project is put forward by the Koi Nation, a small band of Pomo people whose ancestral village was near Clear Lake. Proposed in 2021, the Shiloh project has galvanized opponents—from neighboring residents who fear increased traffic, crime and visual blight to business competitors such as Graton Resort & Casino near Rohnert Park and River Rock near Geyserville. Management of the proposed casino will be contracted to the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma; gaming will include more than 100 tables and 2,750 machines.— NBb staff
Mitote Food Park announces closure Mitote Food Park, the collection of Latinx food trucks operating since 2022 in a lot on Sebastopol Road in Santa Rosa, announced its closure at the end of January. The food park had been located on county property at the site of a defunct shopping center in Roseland—but the parcel is planned for development into the Tierra de Rosas housing complex and initial stages of construction began last summer. Early in January, Mitote operators announced “with a heavy heart” they’d been notified by the county to cease operations by the end of the month. “Stay tuned as we are hoping to be able to move most of our operations to another location soon,” Mitote officials posted on social media, citing “an expedited construction schedule” for the sudden move. Michele Whitman, who oversees development for the county, told the Santa Rosa Press Democrat she was surprised by the food park’s announcement. She said the lease termination the county issued doesn’t require Mitote to vacate the property until June 9. Mitote Food Park, at 665 Sebastopol Road as of press time, includes offerings from Gio Y Los Magos, La Victoria, Pezcow, Yucamami, La Churroteka, El Cora, Lucha Sabina and Super Taco. Regional Mexican cuisines represented include fare from Oaxaca, Jalisco, Michoacan, Yucatan and Mexico City.— JW
12 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
The 415
San Rafael library turning the page
San Rafael residents are looking forward to a new public library and community center, thanks to the recent passage of Measure P, a parcel tax whose revenue will go toward construction of the projects. “Measure P secures dedicated funding through parcel tax revenue to build a new, state-of-the-art public library and community center at Albert Park in San Rafael,” the nonprofit San Rafael Public Library Foundation said in an announcement. The current San Rafael Community Center is at 618 B St., adjacent to Albert Park, which is known for its well-used bocce courts and the baseball field home to the San Rafael Pacifics. The San Rafael Public Library’s main branch is currently at 1100 E St. in San Rafael. Built in 1909 through a grant from 20th-century philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, that building is currently closed with plans for a $3 million renovation. Once renovations are complete, the Carnegie library will remain home to the city’s library services, while Measure P funds are raised and the multi-year construction of the new library and community center at Albert Park are underway. When library services are eventually relocated, city officials say the older building will continue to be used for community purposes.
The annual parcel tax of 14.5 cents per square foot of “improved building area” and $75 per vacant lot is estimated to bring in $6.37 million in revenue annually for 30 years. “The new library and community center will offer cutting-edge technology, dynamic learning spaces and a welcoming environment for residents of all ages,” the foundation’s statement said. “It will also address seismic, fire and environmental safety standards that the current library and community centers do not meet.” Joe O’Hehir, SRPLF board member and chair of the foundation’s Revitalize San Rafael campaign committee, highlighted the long-term impact of the project. “This project is a multigenerational game changer, providing a safe and vibrant gathering place for young and old alike,” he said. “It’s an investment in San Rafael’s future.”— JW
In an effort to promote careers in conservation and the environment, the Marin County Fish and Wildlife Commission is offering a scholarship of up to $3,500 for a student aiming for a career in fish and wildlife conservation, habitat preservation or natural resource management. The scholarship, intended to be annual, is in honor of Ed Schulze, a longtime Novato resident and chair of the Marin County Fish and Wildlife Commission. “The commission is seeking applications from those with diverse backgrounds who may need assistance overcoming potential barriers to education and training in the fish and wildlife sciences,” Marin County officials said in an announcement of the new scholarship. Information about eligibility and an application form are at cemarin.ucanr.edu. Additionally, the commission is offering local nonprofits grants worth up to $5,000, earmarked for promotions of educational and habitat restoration projects in Marin. About a dozen nonprofits are awarded grants annually through the program. In 2024, 13 grants were awarded worth a cumulative $36,263. Awardees included River Otter Ecology Project, WildCare, Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed and California White Shark Project. The grant application deadline is March 3. Visit the commission website or call 415-473-4204.— NBb staff Scholarship available for conservation-minded students
Marin Transit is getting on the bus—technology-wise, that is. Marin’s public-transit agency in January contracted with Ineo Systrans, which will provide a new dispatch system that offers up-to-the-moment tracking and communication with local buses. The system, known as computer aided dispatch and automatic vehicle location (CAD/AVL), allows operators to track bus location, speed, route information, on-time performance and onboard video footage, according to agency officials. The system also equips buses with a silent alarm system, which alerts dispatchers in the event of an emergency and changes the digital exterior displays on the bus, without alarming passengers. The five-year, $1.3 million contract with Ineo begins July 1. For more information, visit marintransit.org .— NBb staff New dispatch system for Marin Transit
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 13
Custom Cabinetry by Trinity Engineering
Our roots run deep in this community. Our founder Bruce Omholt moved Trinity Engineering from Grand Rapids Michigan to Rohnert Park in 1981. For 45 years the team at Trinity Engineering has worked to exceed our client’s expectations of quality, value, and service. Our principal goal continues to be building strong client relationships. As a trusted team partner, Trinity Engineering is dedicated to the success of every project. Through Trinity Engineering’s rich and diverse history our market base has gone
through significant changes. We have met those challenges head on and refused to be limited or categorized as a company. As with most businesses that enjoy long term success, we have evolved and adapted to the market’s needs. We understand the importance of clear communication and work closely with contractors, architects, and designers to lay the ground work that will change ideas and concepts into reality. Trinity continues to be a single source for integrated projects that
require more than basic millwork. Our team’s experience with metal fabrication, glass, plastics, lighting, and finishing enables us to control entire scopes of work under one roof. We have built projects coast to coast and internationally but our local portfolio is what keeps us nested in this incredible region. Throughout the North Bay we have had the privilege to showcase our work in illustrious wineries, gourmet restaurants, esteemed hotels, elite retail establishments, and spectacular dream homes.
Local, national and international experience since 1980 Call for a beautiful and seamless conclusion to your project. 707.585.2959 • trinityengineering.com
WORK LIFE
Mt. Tamalpais
Hush hybrid Bucket list
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 15
'Shh! I'm working from home': The rise of 'hush hybrid' Work/Life/ Office
“S ay, anyone seen Zack at his desk recently?” If questions like this are being heard regularly around the office water cooler, it could be a case of “hush hybrid”—a rising workplace phenomenon which finds certain employees slowly crafting a work-from- home schedule despite a company’s return-to-office policies. With the pandemic fading in the rearview and many companies mandating formerly remote workers return onsite, many staffers grown accustomed to answering emails from their living room couch in little more than their jammies and pair of Uggs are having a hard time adjusting. In a survey by Owl Labs, a UK marketing company, about 70% of managers said they’d allowed team members to work remotely in violation of company policy. Other forms of “hush hybrid” practices include employees slowly increasing the frequency of their occasional requests to work from home, and others carving out individual secret agreements with managers for flex scheduling. While the Owl Labs survey found 87% of employees agree an “unofficial” flex policy can boost morale, HR officials say secret hybrid arrangements can create a toxic sense of favoritism at a workplace. Luck Dookchitra, vice president of people at Leapsome, told Forbe s the trend stems from companies falling back on the mistaken assumption that presence equals performance. She said managers are skirting the no-exceptions return-to-office policies as a way to maintain morale and retain staff. On the downside, employee relations expert Jim Moore cautions that hush hybrid breaks a “cardinal rule” of HR—to treat everyone fairly. Staff members will “invariably talk among themselves, and it won’t be long before any arrangements become common knowledge,” instilling By Jason Walsh
a sense of resentment from those who follow company policy, Moore told People Management magazine. Or, as Molly Johnson-Jones, co-founder and CEO of job-search company Flexa, puts
it: “Company policies exist for a reason. They help ensure that all staff are treated equally and have access to the same benefits.”
Dodging the Office: A Glossary of Terms The new Hush Hybrid phenomenon is only the latest in a post-pandemic series of trends aimed at holding onto a work-from-home flex schedule at all costs. Here are a few others: Hushed Holidays: The Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year’s weeks when employees sneak additional time off at companies expecting them to “stay on” during the holidays. Quiet Vacations: Remote workers horde their vacation time by taking secret trips— under the pretense of working from home—in order to avoid using up scarce PTO. Coffee Badging: When return-to-office mandates first started, employees would arrive at the office, swipe their badges as proof of being on site, pour a cup of coffee to be seen by others, and then sneak out and work from home.— Jason Walsh
16 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
Work/Life/ Explore
By Jason Walsh North Bay bucket list
T he beauty of living in the North Bay is the vast variety of activities available for residents of all ages—from hikes and bikes across the many trails and byways to outings on the bay, foodie destinations, wine-tasting experiences and great live entertainment. With the number of residents age 60 and over expected to reach 35% by 2030, many of the best ventures in the North Bay cater to seniors. Here are 6 outings that everyone living in the North Bay should experience at least once. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge Locals can live their entire lives near the famous International Orange-colored structure without ever actually crossing the 2-mile span on foot (by car a thousand times is another thing). But why leave such great views to the tourists? Start at the Visitor Plaza on the south end and be sure to bundle up—it’s windy even on sunny days. Info about parking and free walking tours at goldengate.org/ bridge/visiting-the-bridge. Hot Air Ballooning Napa Valley boasts multiple ballooning companies eager to float passengers above rolling hills, sweeping vistas and miles of vineyards. Be ready for an early rise—launch is typically just after dawn when the temperatures are cool and the winds calm. Weather can occasionally cancel a booked flight. Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides, Napa Valley Balloons and Balloons Above the Valley are three companies highlighted at visitnapavalley.com . Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant Restaurant ranking is highly subjective, but a nod from the Michelin guide is a barometer a lot of people, even within the industry, use to gauge the finest in local eats. Prices are more of a splurge at Michelin restaurants, but typically for good reason. The most recent guide awarded stars to SingleThread in Healdsburg (which earned a whopping three stars!), plus a single star to Napa County restaurants Auberge du Soleil, Auro, Cyrus, Kenzo and Press. Michelin favorite the French Laundry in Yountville also has three stars. Several more restaurants in Marin, Sonoma and Napa received Bib Gourmand mentions for high-quality at a somewhat lower price. A complete list is at guide. michelin.com/us/en . Safari on the Santa Rosa Serengeti It’s hard to believe but barely a stone’s throw away from traffic- congested Highway 101 is a sweeping preserve populated by caracal, bongo, cheetah, giraffe, buffalo, rhino and more. Safari West’s 400-acre wilderness is populated by more than 1,000
animals. Visitors can go on a daytime safari excursion or glamp it up with a traditional “braai” at the Savannah Café followed by an overnight stay in a luxury tent. For those who’d like a closer look, the Behind the Scenes Experiences provide a glimpse into the world of wildlife care and conservation, bringing guests as close as possible to some of the fantastic creatures of the preserve. Escape to Alcatraz The world’s most famous former prison is only a ferry ride away. The one-time home to such infamous figures as Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly and Bumpy Johnson is filled with history and fans of classic movies like Birdman of Alcatraz, Escape from Alcatraz and Point Blank can get a closeup view of “the rock,” as they’ve seen on the big screen. We recommend one of the self-guided audio tours for the full experience. Visti alcatrazcitycruises.com. Muir Woods Popular with out-of-towners, the majesty of the old-growth redwood forest is truly a sight to behold. The main trail is also a pretty easy hike for all levels. Parking can be tight (you have to reserve in advance), but the Muir Woods Shuttle has proven a convenient way to access the national park quickly and stress- free. Visit gomuirwoods.com.
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 17
A look at the key figures shaping life in the North Bay The Month In Numbers
Sonoma County Ba-bump!
107 Petaluma’s rank among 109 Bay Area jurisdictions on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s list of pavement conditions. Only Pacifica and Vallejo finished lower.
$59.37 million Amount allocated by the City of Petaluma for a five-year plan to repair its litany of potholes.
1,266 Number of potholes repaired in 2024 by the County of Sonoma, which ranked 8 out of 9 counties on the MTC’s pavement-conditions list. Source: County of Sonoma
Special Ed
19% Portion of students in Santa Rosa City Schools district identified as requiring special education services—the state average is 12.5%.
$26 million
Amount Santa Rosa City Schools spends per year on over-identifying
students into special education, according to an analysis by consulting firm Educational Strategic Planning LLC. Source: Santa Rosa Press Democrat
Napa County
Curbing the Homeless
415 People experiencing homelessness in Napa in 2024, an 18% decrease from the previous year. Source: 2024 Point In Time Homeless Count
4 Number of hours RVs are allowed to park in the same space in Napa, under new regulations that took effect in January, which critics paint as an attempt to rid the city of people living in their vehicles.
Marin County
Surf’s Up!
109 Days Bolinas Beach was closed at end of 2024, due to suspected human sewage flowing down in several spots from cliffs adjacent to the Big Mesa neighborhood
10 Gallons of sewage flowing into the ocean per minute at the height of the Bolinas Beach closure Source: County of Marin
18 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
Only In Marin
Nothing changes but the changes
By Bill Meagher
F or the Marin Economic Forum, it’s mission accomplished! For the San Rafael Business Improvement District, it’s about growth. And the Novato Chamber of Commerce has a new head honcho as Coy Smith takes his leave. The 14-year-old Marin Economic Forum, an organization joining business and government interests in promoting economic health and growth, has decided to fold up its tent. “The board of directors took the decision following an analysis that the organization’s mission and goals had been achieved through its activities over
Taking over for Smith is Christina Mendes, previously the director of operations at the chamber. The chamber has about 400 members. Nonprofits like these business organizations have struggled coming out of COVID and the changes to some traditional business practices and structures. Given Marin’s base of small businesses, business organizations can be critical. Size matters in San Rafael The approval of the redevelopment of the Northgate Mall into a mixed- use project with 1,400 residential units may be shifting how large-scale
Robert Eyler at the Marin Economic Forum
the past 12 years and that the recent additions of economic development staff at the county and multiple cities could cause redundancy,” an email blast said. The forum was known for both its economic development focus as well as a revolving door in its corporate suite. Mike Blakeley, the forum’s CEO, had been on the job since 2018, and was the fifth exec to head up the organization. The forum was also known for a board of directors that could fill a room in no time, a body that had as many as 36 directors of various stripes. Blakeley enjoyed the support of Dr. Robert Eyler, an econ professor at Sonoma State as well as president of Economics Forensics and Analytics in Sonoma County. The forum was a nonprofit and had challenges where its finances were concerned. The County of Marin historically saw the value in the organization and was a loyal underwriter to the tune of almost $1.5 million over the last decade. But the county now has Raissa de la Rosa heading up its newly established Economic Vitality Division. On a personal note, I will miss the forum and its observations about Marin. So, even as the forum slips into its own sunset, the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District is looking at solidifying its leadership position. Last year, the organization teamed up with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce. Focused on the downtown area, the district is charged with promoting events designed to bring folks downtown. Some of those events include the Holiday of Lights and Winter Wonderland, the traditional May Madness car show and the Hops and Vine Stroll. Anybody who has tried to negotiate the crowds at these events can attest to their popularity. Whether that translates into more patronage or simply better awareness of the shops, services and eateries populating the downtown, the events generate plenty of excitement and foot traffic. The district is supported by area businesses that contribute between $25 and $425 on an annual basis depending on the size of the business and its location. Putting San Rafael in the rearview mirror, the Novato Chamber of Commerce comes into focus. The nonprofit supporting Marin’s northern-most business community has said goodbye to Coy Smith, who helmed the chamber for two decades.
developments are viewed in the Mission City. Monahan Pacific Corp., longtime developer in Marin, has proposed a 13-story apartment building on Fifth Street across from San Rafael’s City Hall. The plan filed Dec. 3 shows Monahan would like to build 189 units and a rooftop pool. By including very low-income units in the mix (15% of the total before state-mandated density bonuses kick in), the project could realize 63 more units. Monahan has done its homework. The proposed project is eligible for a bigger project and is asking for numerous waivers from the city. Your Marin Moment Mitch Lowe is a former Marin resident and businessman, best known locally for owning and operating Video Droid, a local chain of video rental shops. But he went on to be a founding VP at Netflix, founder and president at Redbox and CEO of MoviePass. But the Securities and Exchange Commission recently updated a set of six unresolved allegations against Lowe claiming he mislead investors in MoviePass. Lowe already pled guilty to criminal charges brought by the Justice Department that mimic the SEC allegations. A status conference has been set for next month in Miami to review his case with an eye toward final sentencing. Lowe faces a max sentence of five years in prison. A resident of Miami Beach, Florida and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Lowe was active in the Marin community and the Mill Valley Chamber of Commerce. He is the author of Watch and Learn, How I Turned Hollywood Upside Down with Netflix, Redbox and MoviePass. Mitch was always generous with his time and insights when I was toiling for Marin newspapers. g
Bill Meagher is a contributing editor at NorthBay biz and is a senior reporter at The Deal, a Manhattan-based digital financial news outlet where he covers smallcap equity investing, SPACs and the SEC.
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 19
The age of
20 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
connection
Older adults play a game of mah jongg at Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Campus in San Rafael. [Photo courtesy Vivalon]
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 21 NorthBaybiz 21
Comm
North Bay senior communities find health and happiness through socialization, bonding and activities
F rom Mill Valley to Calistoga, North Bay seniors are improving their mental and physical well- being by taking time to enjoy and listen to one another. Having safe, open spaces that celebrate diversity and inclusivity helps older adults face down many hurdles, including medical concerns and differences in socioeconomic backgrounds. “The idea is to create a road map for what you want to do with the rest of your life,” says Cynthia Gregory, executive director of the Village Network of Petaluma. “Older adults who come to programs and events tailored to them learn they have options and a community. We advocate motivating people so they are excited to make friends.” The Village Network, a nonprofit that offers social programs for adults 55 and over, is one of many organizations across the North Bay that coordinates activities between its members and with other entities, such as senior centers, libraries, service organizations like Rotary clubs and chambers of commerce. The links between nonprofits, educational institutions, local businesses, libraries and senior centers is critical to establishing spaces that are secular and welcome seniors from all backgrounds. It can be particularly important to open the door to older adults such as LGBTQIA+ individuals and Spanish-preferring speakers, who face barriers that relate to language and prejudice. “We’ve learned that people come for different reasons, from eating lunch to finding space to be creative to making friends. Ultimately, what matters is that they walk through the door,” says Stacie Morales, executive director of Vintage House Senior Center in Sonoma. The first time an older adult comes to Vintage House, they can be a little quiet. A staff member will show them around and answer their questions. “When they come in the next time, they’re standing taller. After a week or two, it’s like they’ve been here forever. When we see them answering a newcomer’s questions, those are the moments that my staff and I smile at each other,” says Morales. Understanding the role of senior centers Senior centers are community spaces where older adults can come to learn, interact and access services like meals and fitness classes. Some senior centers are nonprofit organizations, while others are run by city governments, usually with parks and recreation department funds. Senior centers can offer their own programs and host those offered by other organizations. The Healdsburg Senior Center, which is run by the Community Services Department of the City of Healdsburg, has become an important space for older adults in northern Sonoma County to become engaged. “General isolation and isolation continuing because of the COVID-19 pandemic had been negatively affecting our older adults. The classes and activities we are holding keep their mind, By Jessica Zimmer
body and spirit moving,” says Anna Grant, active adult and senior services supervisor for the City of Healdsburg’s Community Services Department. Staff at the center often use icebreakers at events to introduce newcomers. These range from one-to-one introductions between people who have the same name to inviting people of different ages to share a table during Bistro, a free to $5 meal program held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. “You can break bread with anyone. Offering meals also helps older adults who don’t have the resources or stamina to cook an entire meal. We usually average 20 to 45 people per meal,” says Grant. Since 2019, the Healdsburg Senior Center has seen its membership increase by 56%. Grant is now seeing “junior seniors” in their mid- 60s coming to events. “Finally, the ‘silver tsunami’ that was predicted is here. We see people from 60s to 90s share tables and talk,” says Grant. It can be a challenge to create programs for people from different generations. The three generations of older adults in the North Bay are the Silent Generation, born between 1928 and 1945, baby boomers, between 1946 and 1964, and Generation X, born from 1965 to 1980. “You’re trying to serve widely different demographics, folks who love the Glenn Miller Orchestra, those who like Bob Marley and the Wailers and those who enjoy Metallica. It helps to ask people what they prefer,” says Grant. One of the most successful social events is a birthday club with cake and ice cream. This occasion celebrates everyone with a birthday that month. Grant has found older adults from all income levels and backgrounds are looking for friends. “There are those who are financially secure, but all their family members work. Without us, they’d spend a lot of time alone. Then there are those with less financial resources who are still working but want to relax with people their own age. Everyone gains by coming here,” says Grant. Katie Davis, executive director of the Sebastopol Area Senior Center (SASC), says popular programs for multiple generations in West County include ride-sharing services, fitness classes, lunches, film nights and classes offered by the center or lifelong learning programs. “In 2023, we had 24,000 sign-ins for different programs. We offered programs to 2,300 individuals,” says Davis. Approximately 2,000 sign-ins were for LGBTQIA+ services. SASC’s queer-oriented programs include potlucks and caravan day trips and gay-men’s and lesbian-women's support groups. These groups hold mixers, walks and happy hours. SASC also keeps seniors connected to friends and family far away. Volunteers offer one-on-one technology tutoring to teach older adults how to use smartphones and laptops. SASC often sees attendees travel considerable distances to come to its programs, from Cazadero to Petaluma.
22 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
mmunity
In Guerneville, the Russian River Senior Center frequently takes on the role of being a lifeline for older adults. This center serves the community from Forestville west to the coast. Many of its members live in remote areas. “We partner with the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office to check in on seniors during and after natural disasters.
Marin County is part of the problem. “People bought or began renting decades ago units that are high up, with a lot of stairs or are far from bus stops. We see and meet an uptick in ride and meal delivery requests in the winter. We’re always looking for ways to do more for folks who have difficulty leaving their homes,” says O’Hehir. In the Sonoma Valley, Vintage House sees over
We also check on older adults experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity on a regular basis,” says Emily Heinzelman, director of senior services, crisis support and employment services for West County Community Services (WCCS). The Russian River Senior Center has its own van, so it offers transport for trips and errands. These range from getting groceries to traveling to San Francisco for Broadway shows. Social interaction helps older adults relax after dealing with issues like clean-up and repairs after floods. Heinzelman says the Russian River Senior Center refers its most vulnerable members to Third Street House, a West County Health Center facility where some WCCS staff is co-located. The building offers free showers, assistance with obtaining medications and meals beyond the senior center’s four weekday lunches. Models for outreach, from city to country In San Rafael, Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Campus shows how a community hub can be a “one-stop shop for older adults.” Vivalon, formerly known as Whistlestop, is a Marin County nonprofit that serves older adults and people with disabilities. The organization opened the Healthy Aging Campus in downtown San Rafael in January 2024. The six-story campus contains a cafe, fitness center, medical clinic, technology center and art studio, as well as 66 units of affordable housing. “Having a campus like this helps us serve older adults better. They quickly become familiar with the resources we offer,” says Joe O’Hehir, interim CEO of Vivalon. Vivalon provides almost all of its programs in Spanish. Its resource center counselors speak Spanish too. “The Spanish-speaking population is the fastest growing segment of our senior population. Vivalon also has support groups and other programs for LGBTQIA+ individuals. This is partly because the Spahr Center, the primary Marin County nonprofit to serve the LGBTQIA+ population, closed in February 2024,” says O’Hehir. Vivalon, which offers rides to older adults throughout Marin County, is brainstorming ways to address social isolation in Marin’s smaller cities. The lack of appropriate and affordable housing in
2,000 people a month walk
through its doors. Some travel from distant locations, like Petaluma and
A Meals on Wheels client with the Council on Aging receives a meal. [Photo courtesy Council on Aging]
Napa. This senior center offers over 60 classes a week. It is the only senior center between Kenwood and Schellville. Close to 61% of the center’s classes are physical activities like yoga, strengthening and dance classes. The center also offers art, music, ukulele, bridge, German, Spanish, French, Italian classes, as well as lectures from experts on a variety of art and science topics. One of Vintage House’s most popular programs is its Friday “Soup’s On” event, in which local chefs make soup for a crowd of between 85 and 160 people. Basque Boulangerie Café in Sonoma donates the bread. Vintage House is now partnering with local businesses and nonprofits to encourage older adults to visit locations beyond the senior center. “We offer aqua fitness classes in partnership with Sonoma Splash, a local nonprofit aquatics center located in the City of Sonoma, and photography classes at Sonoma Botanical Gardens. Transcendence
Theatre Company has put on special
performances at Vintage House, which underlies the strength of our partnerships. All of this gets seniors out into the community to explore,” says Morales. In Napa Valley, connecting older adults requires collaboration with cities. Jenny Ocon is the executive director of UpValley Family Centers, a social services nonprofit that serves Calistoga, St. Helena,
Joe O’Hehir, of Vivalon.
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 23
basis. The contact helps ensure older adults are not experiencing emergencies and get to hear the same friendly voices,” says Holmes. Both Catholic Charities programs rely on volunteers. “Many of our volunteers are seniors as well. Getting involved to help people in their age bracket in the community gives them a sense of purpose and engagement,” says Holmes. The importance of education Educational workshops and classes offer chances to learn new information and discuss it with others. This is typically a sure bet to draw older adults. There are multiple programs in the North Bay that provide such opportunities, from the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Sonoma State University to activities offered by Village Network’s different groups.
The Emeritus Students College of Marin (ESCOM) provides an avenue for active adults to connect through approximately over 20 free clubs that meet at College of Marin’s Kentfield and Indian Valley campuses. Some clubs also meet online, says Leonard Weingarten, vice president of the ESCOM Council, the governing body for ESCOM. “As of fall 2024, we have about 3,100 members. We partner with outside organizations such as Book Passage in Corte Madera to invite authors and distinguished leaders for talks. We also work with the Marin Commission on Aging, which is associated with Marin County’s Health and Human Services Department, to offer free computer and technology-oriented workshops,” says Weingarten. ESCOM makes it possible for older adults to support College of Marin’s students by sharing their time, experience and commitment. “Members of our clubs who have a background in business have given talks to share their knowledge with College of Marin students. Other ESCOM members have helped students who [speak] English as a second language practice their interviewing and networking skills,” says Weingarten. Santa Rosa Junior College’s (SRJC’s) Lifelong Learning program, formerly the Older Adults program, connects seniors through a wide variety of free, non-credit courses. “In fall 2024, community members could sign up for 96 classes. We had about 2,900 enrolled. Some classes are online, but many are in-person. Most of the classes focus on art, writing, genealogy, fitness and discussions of topics like current events,” says Kelly Mayes, coordinator of SRJC’s Lifelong Learning program. Some classes focus on new topics, like LGBTQIA+ history, vinyl classics—which involves listening and discussing classic records—and banned books, which involves reading and discussing controversial books. Classes for adults can also take place in libraries. The Sonoma County Library engages many older adults through virtual and in-person book clubs, author talks, genealogy and history presentations and educational workshops with third parties such as the League of Women Voters.
Ken Dychtwald, founder and CEO of Age Wave, an Orinda-based company that focuses on aging, answers questions about his latest book, ‘Radical Curiosity,’ at the 50th anniversary celebration for the Emeritus Students College of Marin in 2023. [Photo by Rob Martel]
Angwin and Pope Valley. “There is no senior center in Calistoga. That’s part of the reason we offer services in that city,” says Ocon. “The City of Calistoga provides us with some funding in recognition of the need for services to be provided locally.” In mountainous areas, outreach depends on word of mouth. “Community members often refer neighbors to us,” says Lupe Maldonado, program director for the Family and Senior Wellness Program of UpValley Family Centers. “We partner with everyone, from schools who serve as distribution sites for gift card distribution during disasters to local food banks who distribute resources to people in need. That helps us learn which older adults may want to come to our programs,” It usually takes time and positive experiences to build trust. UpValley welcomes Spanish-preferring clients by sharing information in Spanish language printed materials and having bilingual staff at events. “Yet often getting older adults to come back is about offering resources that they need, like vouchers for rental assistance or rides for doctor’s appointments, right in their community and from someone [with whom] they’ve built a relationship,” says Ocon. Since there is no public transportation in the mountainous areas, roundtrips to St. Helena and Calistoga are very welcome. Free rides and a bit of socialization is also the aim of Caring Rides, a program of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa that serves Santa Rosa residents. This program aims to help seniors stay active and feel engaged and connected to their community. Jennielynn Holmes, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa, says Caring Rides helps prevent isolation and ensure seniors are present for important medical appointments. She says approximately 22% of Catholic Charities’ clients are over 60. “We also run another program called Caring Voices (CV) in Sonoma County. CV involves volunteers calling homebound seniors on a daily
24 NorthBaybiz
February 2025
“In addition, we also offer intergenerational recreational activities like cooking classes. This year, our squash blossom quesadilla class was a favorite. It provided a way for grandparents to connect with their adult children and young grandchildren,” says Aleta Dimas, adult services administrator for the Sonoma County Library. The BiblioBus, a mobile library that makes stops at senior centers and senior housing communities, draws many older adults searching for new books. “People often come with their friends. There’s camaraderie built around these visits,” says Dimas. Libraries are always looking for ways to support individuals with memory issues. One method is Memory Kits, a project that is a component of the partnership between the Sonoma County Library and the Mendocino County Library. “The kits include movies, music, books and puzzles from different decades, like the 1950s. They allow older adults to connect with things that are important to them. They’re a great way for friends to share favorites with one another and caregivers to spark conversations,” says Dimas. Learning can happen in social clubs as well. SIR, a nonprofit public benefit corporation, is a social organization that has chapters throughout California. Every chapter of the organization is open only to men. The exception is Chapter 92 of SIR, in Oakmont, which also welcomes women. Marianne Neufeld, who serves as President of SIR 92, says the organization frequently invites speakers to talk about subjects ranging from autism to nature. “We have about 75 members, who love to get together, talk and plan outings, like to the 6th Street Playhouse. I’ve seen attendance at a SIR talk lead to friendships form outside the presentation room,” says Neufeld. Seniors often enjoy learning from one another. At LGBTQ Connection’s center in Napa, between four to six queer seniors gather every month to interact with peers. “Safety is an important topic. People share how to come out late in life, to their doctor, family members and new friends. There’s so much to learn and it takes time to build trust. That’s why we sit together and learn about each other’s lives. Then we can understand what to teach each other,” says Coach Bailie, Napa program director for LGBTQ Connection. A number of programs for older adults focus on promoting good health. Avoiding falls is an important topic, says Denise Johnson, director of senior nutrition and health services for Council on Aging in
Santa Rosa.
“We offer fall- prevention and aging- in-place programs and many other services, like Meals on Wheels and senior peer support. We hold these programs at senior centers, low-income housing community rooms and in households of homebound seniors,” says Johnson. It is helpful to hold the program in a person’s living space because many high-risk seniors are homebound and cannot drive or easily walk to their residence community rooms. The Council on Aging sends a trained employee to participants’ homes twice a week. Seniors are assessed for mobility, flexibility and strength. The staff then create a customized exercise plan to address each participant’s specific needs. “Overall, the Council on Aging’s programs serve close to 6,500 seniors a year. Most of our programs have waitlists showing the need for these services. The only program without a waitlist is congregate [group] dining,” says Johnson. She attributes this to the fact that many seniors continue to exercise caution in group settings. Learning from the pandemic As North Bay organizations move forward in encouraging seniors to socialize, they are keeping in mind that the COVID-19 pandemic has had lasting effects on older adults’ mental and physical health. Successful strategies depend on organizations
A balance class at the Sebastopol Area Senior Center. [Photo courtesy Sebastopol Area Senior Center]
The Santa Rosa Symphonic Chorus at Santa Rosa Junior College. [Photo by Jason Steger]
Participants in the Caring Rides program of Catholic Charities share a hug. [Photo courtesy Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa]
A group from the Russian River Senior Center enjoy Bodega Head. [Photo courtesy West County Community Services]
February 2025
NorthBaybiz 25
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator