Fundraiser planned for Santa Rosa mother after slaying of her two young children

On Saturday in Santa Rosa, a spaghetti feed open to all will raise money for Connie Camara-Rodrigues as she makes her way following the killing of both her children.

Through the labor union that’s organizing the benefit at the Odd Fellows Hall on Pacific Avenue, Camara-Rodrigues sent a message of thanks for the support and kindness she’s received.

“There aren’t enough words to truly express the overwhelming gratitude I have for everyone that has sent prayers, love, and thoughts my way,” she wrote.

“Outside of our house is a beautifully decorated fence of flowers and gifts people have left for my beautiful children, my two guardian angels. The outpouring of love and togetherness I have received from our community and afar gives me hope that compassion to one another during a horrific time still exists.”

Authorities said that in mid-June, 6-year-old Juliana Camara-Rodrigues and her brother, Julian, 19 months, were killed by their father, who then took his own life.

The Aug. 26 pasta feed is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The meal is $10 for adults, half that for kids.

Connie Camara-Rodrigues plans to be there.

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OAKMONT’S BEDROCK: There’s got to be a bottom to the senior community of Oakmont’s tumble into rancor and chaos. Once it is hit, the healing and reconstruction of relationships can begin.

But at this moment, the free-fall continues.

There’s been another resignation among directors of the Oakmont Village Association governing board. Frank Batchelor has stepped down. The retired attorney had served longer on the OVA board than anyone else, and in the election this past spring was the top vote-getter. Batchelor was across the aisle from the board majority that halted the project to build a pickleball complex. He was often at odds with Ellen Leznik and Ken Heyman.

Leznik served briefly as president of the board but drew scorn from many residents and quit the panel late in June. Heyman was elected in March and served as vice president until he vacated the office of VP last week after reporting he’d found on his porch a paper bag emblazoned with “YOU NEXT” and containing the head of a rat.

Frank Batchelor didn’t care to say why he left the board. In regard to the enmity and decline of civility in Oakmont, it’s hard to imagine much that hasn’t already been said.

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THE GOOD SEATS: If you haven’t yet experienced the luxury amenities coming to many movie theaters - electric recliners, phenomenal new sound, enhanced food and beverages, reserved seating - prepare to be wowed.

The Tocchini family that runs a number of local moviehouses invites us to a sneak peek from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the upgraded Airport Stadium 12 near Windsor.

We can cozy into a recliner and enjoy the new-generation surround sound, free popcorn and a fountain drink while taking in previews from the coming film season. A session begins every 15 minutes.

Reservations for the new recliner seats begin Friday. The Tocchinis and their Santa Rosa Entertainment Group hope to have a bar and grill up and running at the Airport cinemas by early October.

You can reach Staff Writer Chris Smith at 707-521-5211 or chris.smith@pressdemocrat.com.