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VOL. 18 NO. 11 ISSUE NO. 196 December 6, 2003 CIRCULATION: 5,100 RESIDENCES; 200 BUSINESSES
Sponsored by The Rockridge Community Planning Council • 5245 College Ave. PMB 311 • Oakland, CA 94618 • 644-4228
Newsletter Seeks
New Editor
Imagine yourself
City Fire Assessment District
Coming to Parts of Rockridge
Sin charge of
The Rockridge
News, the most widely read source of news about
Rockridge. Every month, you talk to interesting people
who are excited about their community and working
to make it better. You get to use your creative energies
writing stories and your people skills
helping other staff members do their
very best.
hould there be a new fire assessment district in Oakland? Many Rockridge
property owners, both residential and commercial, have recently received
mail-in ballots from the City of Oakland to vote on this question. Most prop-
erty owners would be assessed $65 per year under the new district, which
would raise about $1.8 million per year. Only property owners are allowed
to vote. If a majority vote in favor, the district will be created.
Most of the proposed district lies east of Highways 13 and 580, but substan-
tial parts lie to the west. Longer-term residents of Rockridge are still acutely
aware that many homes south of Highway 24 near Lake Temescal and west
of Highway 13 burned to the ground in the 1991 Oakland Hills Fire.
And when it’s over, you have the
satisfaction of knowing your neighbors
— maybe 10,000 of them — are read-
ing your work. You’re an integral part
of one of the most active community
organizations in the Bay Area.
In Rockridge, most areas east of the Broadway-College intersection and
extending to Highway 13 are included, as is much of Rockridge east of Col-
lege Avenue and north of Highway 24.
Projects to be undertaken by the new district would include vegetation
removal by city and private crews to reduce fire hazards, goat grazing to
reduce excess brush, and roving fire patrols during high fire hazard days.
In addition, supplemental yard waste removal,
inspection of private property for fire hazards,
This tantalizing opportunity awaits: You could be
editor of The Rockridge News!
Working with the Rockridge Community Planning
Council and a small volunteer staff, the editor
identifies important community stories and helps to
bring them to every household in the neighborhood once
a month, except for August. Duties include assigning,
editing, and writing stories, assembling photographs,
and working with the designer to make every issue the
best it can be. Some editors also have served on the
board of the RCPC.
FIRE DISTRICT, PAGE 8
PostMark Temescal 94609
Historic site at 49th Street and
Telegraph Avenue dedicated
by Claire Isaacs-Wahrhaftig
Where 49th Street converges
with Telegraph and Shattuck
avenues, Temescal Plaza was once the
final stop of a railroad that shipped
local produce far and wide. Nearby,
Italian stonemasons who helped build
the University of California had their
homes.
The editor must be a Rockridge resident. Polished
writing and editing skills, an understanding of jour-
nalistic style, the ability to manage volunteers, and
familiarity with Microsoft Word are highly desirable.
A modest stipend is provided.
Early next year, the 200th issue of The Rockridge
News will go to press. That’s 18 years as the neighbor-
hood’s premier source of information. The Rockridge
News is hand-delivered to 5,000 households—that’s
how important we think it is.
This history—and more—is
recalled in PostMark Temescal, a
public art project and interpretive
site that brightens the entrance to the
Post Office many Rockridge residents
frequent and adds a colorful rest area
to the adjoining commercial strip. A
circular bench displays important sites
in Temescal. Its sides are ringed with
photographs of scenes old and new,
and personalities past and present, who
PHOTO: CLAIRE ISAACS
Remi Rubel and Jeff Norman cut
cake to celebrate the Postmark
Temescal dedication.
If you agree and would like to contribute to the
newsletter’s stellar record, please send a note and
resumé to Daniel Ferdelman, RCPC Chair, 5245 Col-
lege Avenue PMB 311, Oakland, CA 94618 or e-mail
Dan at danielferdelman@yahoo.com.
have contributed to the community’s
vitality. Alongside is a sidewalk
“creek” with a concrete bridge and
a green metal sculpture illustrating
the watershed.
POSTMARK, PAGE 8
RCPC General Meeting
HAPPY
HOLIDAYS!
NO MEETING in December.
NEXT meeting: January 15, 2004
December 6, 2003
2.
ROCKRIDGE BRANCH LIBRARY
Around the Neighborhood
by Jacqueline Tasch, Editor, The Rockridge News
To Every Season
There is a Thing
T
5366 College Avenue
597-5017
NEW HOURS:
Tuesday: 12:30 – 8 p.m.
Weds, Thurs, Sat: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday 12 – 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, Monday CLOSED
LIBRARY DETAILS: SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 15.
his year, there will be no Christmas in The Rockridge News. Except for this one
mention—for the sake of clarity—the upcoming period in late December will be
referred to as a holiday: as in holiday shopping, holiday parties, and happy holiday.
The Rockridge News, founded in 1986 by Don Kinkead,
is published monthly in Oakland and is sponsored by
the Rockridge Community Planning Council, a non-
profit public benefit organization founded to: preserve
and enhance the unique character of the Rockridge
neighborhood; promote the health, safety and quality
of life of its residents; furnish a forum for community
involvement, and provide leadership and representation
of neighborhood interests.
The idea is that we should avoid giving offense to readers who practice religions
that do not celebrate C_____ or who practice no religion at all. Not offending readers
is a worthy goal, and I’m happy to do anything that will help us achieve it.
Since we reached this decision, I’ve been watching other media to see what they’re
doing, and I certainly do hear and see a lot of the word holiday, even from a local church,
which is offering concerts of holiday music. Will the concerts feature holiday carols,
I wonder? Will “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” replace “I’ll Be Home
for C_____ ” on the program? Will the choir be “dreaming of a white holiday?”
Rockridge News Production
Jacqueline Tasch..................Editor-in-Chief
Ortrun Niesar, Claire Isaacs...Writers
Barry Kaufman...................Food
Jo Ellis...................................Calendar
Theresa Nelson ....................Neighborhood Merchant
Lydia Gans...........................Photography
Lauri Scharber....................Advertising
Susan Montauk...................Business Manager
Don Kinkead.......................Graphics & Layout
David Hatfield................... RCPC Liaison
Whatever you call it, C______ has established itself as a central part of America’s
cultural environment, which now embraces people of many diverse cultures, not all of
them Christian. I’m not sure, however, whether that’s a triumph of religious or capi-
talistic fervor.
Not long ago, I went looking for a small manger scene to put on my mantle and
found nothing at any of the major retail outlets. There were snowmen and Santa Clauses
and candy canes and even Grinches, but no sign of the person whose birthday we are
theoretically celebrating. My first greeting card at this time of year is always from a
Jewish friend who keeps two sets of dishes in her cupboards, for keeping kosher, but
occasionally also has a holiday tree.
RCPC Board of Directors, 2003-2004
Daniel Ferdelman ..............Chair
Deborah Larson.................Vice-Chair
Jessica Pitt, John Potis .......Secretaries
Greg Yoch............................Treasurer
It seems to me that the menu of ways to celebrate this holiday has become quite exten-
sive. The religious character of the day is a relatively small—and noncompulsory—part
of the celebration. I have to wonder if we can’t respect our differences without turning
to bland generic language.
A Change of View
David Hatfield, Hiroko Kurihara,
Susan Montauk,Theresa Nelson,
Chad Thompson, Michael Whitfield
NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTIONS
Astute readers of this issue’s front page will have surmised that I am about to leave
my position as editor of The Rockridge News. I have not developed a sudden allergy
to printer’s ink or quarreled with the publishers. Putting this newsletter together every
month takes a great deal of time, and I’ve simply decided that I would like to have
some of that time for other interests.
Annual subscriptions to The Rockridge News
can be obtained by sending a check for $18, payable
to Rockridge News Subscriptions to: Rockridge News
Subscriptions at the address below.
Articles published in The Rockridge News may be
reprinted only with the permission of the Editor.
CONTACTING THE ROCKRIDGE NEWS
Newspapers tend to reflect the attitudes and interests of their editors, even when they’re
meeting all the usual standards of journalistic objectivity. Changing the leadership of The
Rockridge News, then, is an opportunity to take a fresh look at the neighborhood.
Are there community issues you’d like to see
covered in The Rockridge News?
Do you have questions about newsletter
You’ll recall that I was new to Rockridge when I took this job a little more than a
year ago—I didn’t know much about Rockridge, but I was certainly enchanted by the
place. Today, I know a lot more about Rockridge, and I’m still enchanted.
distribution?
Would you like to volunteer to be a Rockridge
News block captain?
Contact us at one of the following addresses or
telephone numbers:
I want to thank all the folks who’ve taken time to talk with me in my quest to put
together a monthly column and news stories. Special kudos go to the crew who wrote
stories and put up with my editing, and especially to Mr. Kinkead, who remains the
steady beat at the heart of this enterprise.
Editor: jatasch@mindspring.com
www.rockridge.org
The Rockridge News, 5245 College Avenue,
PMB 311, Oakland, CA 94618
RCPC Voicemail: 644-4228
NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING/DEADLINES
Stepping down as editor is not the same as fleeing headlong from all contact. There’s
much more I’d like to learn about this neighborhood, and I look forward to sharing it
with you on these pages.
Publication date of the next issue is
January 3, 2003
January deadline is December 11
Advertising rates are $22/column inch. Six-month
pre-pay rate available. To advertise, call Lauri
Scharber at 655-2196. (RCPC reserves the right
to refuse any display or classified ad that it deems
inappropriate.)
I’m not leaving the neighborhood, as some have guessed. You may still run into
me shopping on College Avenue or taking a walk. I’ll still say hello. I may even say
Merry—ooops.
3.
Community Can Play a Role in
Prosecuting Offenders
December 6, 2003
City Makes
False Alarms
Costly
by Susan Montauk, NCPC Member
Aparole for similar offenses may be sent
to prison for violating their parole if they
are arrested. In addition, prior offenses
add time to their sentences.
bout 8,500 felonies were committed
in the East Bay last year, the bulk
of them in Oakland. However, only just
over 100 cases came to trial. As the tele-
vision series Law and Order advises us,
the police are only half of the criminal
justice system. It’s the prosecutors who
are responsible for taking criminal charges
to trial, getting convictions, and sending
dangerous offenders to prison.
by Jacqueline Tasch
It would take 14 full-time police officers
just to respond to the 34,000 or so false
alarms referred to the Oakland Police
Department (OPD) each year by companies
that provide alarm services to commercial
and residential customers in the city. That
costs more than $1.6 million each year.
With the help of the police depart-
ment, communities can implement another
very effective crime prevention measure,
Giuntini said. In cases of repeat offenses
by one person in a single neighborhood,
the community can work with police to
obtain a stay-away order. One Oakland
neighborhood group was successful in
sending a drug dealer away for 90 days
after he violated a stay-away order.
“We spend a lot of taxpayer money on
what’s really a very selective population,”
says Deputy Chief Michael Holland, who
is in charge of setting up a new program
of fees and fines related to alarm systems.
“The companies install equipment, get an
electronic signal, and make a phone call. It’s
the Oakland police who go to the scene.”
Deputy District Attorney Russ
Giuntini, who leads a staff of prosecutors
in Alameda County, told a rapt audience
at the Neighborhood Crime Prevention
Council Town Hall on November 18 how
the community can work with prosecutors
as well as police.
Giuntini was most passionate about the
need to redirect juvenile offenders before
they become adults. He used the example
of 16- and 17-year-old drug dealers who
receive light sentences for selling drugs.
They drift into adulthood thinking there
are no significant consequences to their
actions. The first time they are picked
up for selling drugs as adults, they are
charged with a felony that carries a stiff
prison sentence. When they have a prison
record, their chances of finding employ-
ment decline.
If your home or business is protected
by an alarm system, you may have already
received a bill for initial fees, which were
approved by the City Council a few months
ago. These are $35 per year for commercial
users and $25 per year for homeowners. If
OPD is able to generate the bills in time,
your initial payment will be somewhat larger,
with a prorated amount for 2003 and a full
payment for 2004. In coming years, annual
renewal notices will be issued.
To help in the prosecution of offend-
ers, members of the community can
write letters, and they can testify in
court. Giuntini explained that criminal
defense attorneys often argue that their
clients have made a first mistake and aren’t
likely to repeat it. With solid testimony
from community members about a pattern
of criminal behavior, the DA can rebut
defense counsel’s claims.
One particular juvenile training pro-
gram received Giuntini’s high praise. It is
a mentor diversion program at the Cypress
Mandela Training Center. Youth offenders
with no history of violence are accepted
into the program where they receive coun-
seling, education support, and job training.
Many of the graduates have been hired
by the Port and Caltrans.
About 40% of homicide offenders and
victims are parolees, Giuntini said. Many
people on probation for felonies don’t have
to report to a probation officer. He strongly
advised people who are victims of crimes
to check with the county probation office
to find out if the person charged in their
case is on parole. Perpetrators who are on
However, the largest income related to
the new ordinance is expected to come from
fines for false alarms. One false alarm per
year will generate a no-cost response. The
second false alarm will cost $100, the third
$200, and every one after that $300. “We’ll
keep responding,” said Holland, “but it’s
going to get really expensive.”
The new system is expected to generate
as much as $2 million in the first year, Hol-
land says, with revenues declining as false
alarms do. Holland estimates that only 1%
of the alarms issued in Oakland actually
involve an intruder. Some others are due
to faulty mechanisms, but many are due to
owner lapses. As Holland puts it, “Somebody
failed to close the front door in time.”
Alarm Association, believes that Oakland’s
plan, which the association helped to draft,
provides an excellent model. “It’s an ordi-
nance unlike any ordinance in the country,”
he says.
deterrent,” said Graham Westphal, President
of Bay Alarm Company, a major Oakland
provider. While he supports the Oakland
ordinance, Westphal notes that many com-
panies already take steps to reduce false
alarms. At Bay Alarm, for example, service
technicians are available around the clock
to handle technical issues, and two people,
often neighbors, are called to verify that an
alarm is not accidental before the police are
dispatched. “We make a significant effort,”
said Westphal. “Now all companies will
have to be responsible.”
In fact, some cities have adopted a policy
in which police do not respond to alarms
unless someone at the site verifies that a
crime is in progress or has occurred. When
police in Salt Lake City followed such a
policy and limited their rense to alarms,
burglaries increased by 15% to 29%. This
suggests that alarms and police response
help to reduce crime.
Oakland is not alone in deciding that
“the folks getting the service need to help
underwrite the cost of the service,” Holland
says. Most cities have set up fees and fines
or are considering doing so.
Alarm companies have been asked to
provide the city
ALARMS, PAGE 8
Keith Buerke of All-Guard Alarm
Systems, who is president of the East Bay
“We wouldn’t exist if we didn’t offer a
December 6, 2003
4.
Tree Protection Ordinance Geared to Greenery
W
hat sets Oakland
apart from many
Bay Area cities is its
trees—not just the oaks
that are featured in its
name, but redwoods,
pines, and eucalyptus.
To preserve that green-
ery, the city has a Tree
Protection Ordinance,
which requires a permit
before certain trees can be
removed—even if they’re
on private property. The
ordinance protects Cali-
fornia or coast oak trees
with a trunk larger than
4 inches in diameter and
other trees with a diameter
exceeding 9 inches. Most
Monterey pines and euca-
lyptus are not protected.
Many of Rockridge’s
streets are sheltered
under arching trees
that provide a
comforting, secure
feeling. Some
neighbors believe this
has the added benefit
of calming traffic in
their neighborhood.
PHOTOS: JACQUELINE TASCH
endanger its growth,
for example, by setting
foundations too close
to a tree’s roots.
In such cases,
neighbors must be
advised of any tree-
endangering plans,
and if they object, the
Parks Department staff
weighs both sides of the argument and issues
a decision. City arborist Mitch Thompson
told a recent RCPC General Meeting that
when “weighing a wall against a tree,” an
important factor is dollars and cents. The
value of the tree is calculated according
to a formula that rates such things as spe-
cies, condition, and location, Thompson
most lively debates” the commission hears,
says its chair, Matthew Webb. Whether or
not trees should be removed or endangered
“is an interesting and somewhat controver-
sial issue.”
Usually, applications for tree permits
are submitted to the Tree Division of the
Office of Parks and Recreation, which
reviews the request and approves or denies
it. When new construction might endanger
a tree, the permit application is filed with
the Planning Department, which refers it
to the Tree Division. This administrative
process is now under review.
Some permits involve taking down trees
that are creating a health or safety risk, for
example, by interfering with sewer lines or
by threatening to fall on someone’s house.
However, in other cases, property owners
may want to remove a tree to change
the landscaping or enlarge a building
on the property. Sometimes, the work
doesn’t require removing the tree but may
TREE ORDINANCE, TOP OF NEXT PAGE
4HE
However, the final arbiter in decisions
about trees is the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Commission, which hears
appeals from staff decisions and makes a
final ruling. These appeals “generate the
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5.
December 6, 2003
Tree Ordinance
from previous page
Oakland Libraries Celebrate 125 Years
T
here will be treats at the Rockridge Library on December 6 as part of a gala
celebration of the Oakland Public Library’s 125th birthday. Bigger doings
are planned at the Main Library, 125 14th Street. Carmen Martinez, the library’s
director, will head a list of speakers at a reception starting at 11am.
said. Then the cost of adjusting a building
plan to save that tree is tallied. If the tree
is worth more than the cost of changes, the
tree wins. If not, the wall gets built. The
city may require the homeowner to plant
a tree elsewhere on the property to replace
the one that is removed.
In an ongoing tribute to the library’s 125 years of service, there’s an exhibit in
the Oakland History Room at the Main Library. Called “Enduring Past, Antici-
pated Future,” the exhibit assembles rare vintage items, including photographs,
scrapbooks, library cards, and other artifacts.
Although the parks staff “works with
neighbors and the homeowner to reach a
resolution that satisfies everyone,” Webb
says, sometimes that goal isn’t achieved.
In those cases, the dissatisfied party can
appeal to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Commission, which hears a half dozen or
more of these cases each year.
Oakland Public Library’s first librarian was Ina Coolbrith, a famous poet, who
once encouraged author Jack London to keep reading. At one time, the library had
separate tables for men and women. The branch libraries began as reading rooms
where people had access to newspapers. The first dedicated children’s section was
opened in 1902.
The exhibit was assembled by History Room Librarian Kathleen DeGiovanni.
At the hearing, the commission listens
to supporters and opponents of the staff’s
decision and receives evidence. “We encour-
age people to come to the appeal prepared
with authoritative witnesses and concrete
evidence,” Webb says. The hearings are
often emotional. On the one hand, owners
resent having someone else “making deci-
sions about their own backyard,” he says.
However, any tree has an impact on the
neighborhood, not just the property where
it stands.
as possible,” Webb says, and the commission
reviews—but does not always support—the
staff’s determination. “We’re not a rubber
stamp. We make our own determination,”
he says. Six of the commission’s eleven
members must vote to overturn a staff
ruling.
Today I have grown taller
from walking with the trees.
— Karle Wilson Baker
Property owners who see this process as
unduly complicated would be ill-advised to
take the matter—or an axe or chainsaw—into
their own hands. Penalties, including fines,
are imposed for removing or damaging a
tree without a permit, Webb says: “There
are teeth to the ordinance.”
“We try to deal with the issues as fairly
#
Mon–Fri 9:30 - 6:00
Sat 9:30 - 5:00
CHIMES
PHARMACY
Serving Rockridge Since 1909
!
!
3210 College
Near Alcatraz
652-1990
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
A DIFFERENT ANGLE
Photo-Art Gallery
5833 College Avenue
Rockridge - Oakland, CA
510.653.8848
www.adifferentangle.net
December 6, 2003
6.
College Avenue
Sparkles for
The Holidays
W
PHOTO: DON KINKEAD
THE NEIGHBORHOOD MERCHANT
BY THERESA NELSON
College Avenue as a Gift Center
hen you see the large bow of tiny
white lights appear on the corner of
the Rockridge Market Hall, you know that
the holidays are fast approaching. The shops
of College Avenue have almost everything
you could want for holiday parties or gift
giving. You might be able to take care
of your entire shopping list without ever
leaving the neighborhood, as you’ll see on
this College Avenue shopping excursion.
It’s actually three trips, each one cover-
ing a few blocks in the Avenue area. The
designations of lower, upper, and central
College Avenue are my own, representing
a cluster of stores within easy walking
distance of each other.
of books for every age and interest, along
with cards, gifts, and, of course, calendars.
Finally, stop in at High Strung, for handmade
beaded jewelry and gifts.
sic furnishings from dining room tables to
lifelike silk flower arrangements. Cross the
street to see Scout Home + Garden + Travel,
featuring home décor, furnishings for house
and garden, and unique collectables. Visit
Cotton Basics and you can choose from an
array of simple, classic tops and bottoms in
soft cotton in rich, ever-changing colors.
Somewhere along the way, you’ll want
to stop for a morning snack or lunch,
and there are so many delicious choices.
Should it be comforting pastas and salads
at Filippo’s, delectable gourmet pizzas
at Pizza Rustica? Perhaps mouth-water-
ing burgers, fries, and pies at Rockridge
Café, smooth espresso and morning buns at
Hudson Bay Caffe? Or maybe scrumptious
sushi at Uzen Korean barbecue at Suzy Q,
and appetizing noodles and dishes from all
over south and east Asia at Soi 4 Bangkok
Eatery. You can even enjoy luscious French
small plates and an interesting wine at À
Coté (Thursday through Sunday), of course
with their famous pommes frites.
Central College Avenue:
Lawton Avenue to Chabot Road
Itsy Bitsy is the classic little jewelry
store, with one of the largest collections
of earrings anywhere, something for every
taste and budget. Books, both new and used,
abound at Pendragon, along with cards and
gift calendars. Stroll up to Maison d’Etre,
offering home décor, furnishings, personal
accessories, clothing, and gifts, many
French-inspired and all delightful.
Lower College Avenue:
Broadway to Lawton Avenue
Cross College again to visit the Market
Hall for a gourmet experience: heavenly
Italian olive oils and balsamic vinegars
from The Pasta Shop, delicious teas from
Peaberry’s, luscious cakes at Market Hall
Baking, fine vintages at Paul Marcus Wines,
beautiful flowers at Bloomie’s, fine meats
and poultry at Enzo’s, extremely fresh fish at
Rockridge Fish and mouth-watering produce
at Market Hall Produce to complement a
Pasta Shop gift basket.
BEGIN AT POPPY FABRIC on Broadway,
the perfect place to find patterns and materi-
als for holiday clothing and décor. Around
the corner on College, you’ll encounter
Serrahna, with an amazing collection of
scarves and garments (for women and men)
in glorious colors. Cross the street to Ros-
somano, with its unusual Italian antiques
and contemporary home décor to fit many
styles. Nearby is Form Vintage Modern,
offering the mid-20th century look in fur-
niture and accessories.
REFRESHED AND RENEWED, we move
on to the blocks around the Rockridge
BART station, a handy landmark. Begin-
ning near Lawton, you’ll see Noah’s Art
with jewelry, meditation aids, sculptures,
music, and more.
Cross under BART, and stop for a
moment to view the Firestorm Memorial,
honoring those neighbors who lost family,
Nearby is the renowned Rockridge Kids,
a Bay Area favorite and a landmark for
children’s toys, equipment, and clothing, just
about anything you could need for the spe-
cial child in your life. Voted one of the Bay
Area’s best children’s stores, it’s the place to
go to get away from hyped commercial toys
and rediscover the opportunity to stimulate
a child’s imagination and delight.
Continue on to Loot Antiques, with its
eclectic collection of vintage items from
the tiniest silver spoons to large dressers.
Cross the street again past the Rockridge
Library, and you’ll come to Bella Vita,
offering whimsical home décor, clothing,
accessories, and collectibles from many
places and time periods. Next door is Soirée,
known for its exquisite contemporary and
vintage special occasion dresses. Drop in to
Diesel Books, which has an amazing array
CONTINUED, TOP OF NEXT PAGE
Up the street, redhound has the perfect
gift for your favorite dog or cat and pet items
you can be sure your Aunt Mary doesn’t
already have. Fenton MacLaren offers clas-
S and J PCS Center
serving the Rockridge Community
!
!" $
5916 College Ave @ Chabot Ave
(510) 601-8282
Open 7 days a week
" !$
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Authorized cell phone Dealer for:
AT & T, T-Mobile & Verizon
7.
December 6, 2003
College Avenue Gifts
ers (beef, turkey, chicken, or tofu) from
around the world (and those yummy curly
fries) at Barney’s.
Upper College Avenue:
Chabot Road to Alcatraz Avenue
tations for every special occasion. Heartfelt
& offers a delightful array of items, from
tiny vintage toys to lovely contemporary
gifts to clever items for those with a healthy
sense of humor. Nearby is Body Options,
with active wear and school/office clothing
for women of all ages. Ovation offers high-
fashion clothing for women, with a focus
on special occasion dresses and interesting
accessories.
from page 6
homes, and more in the fires of 12 years
ago. One poignant tile proclaims “always
use your best china,” a reminder to enjoy
everything that life has to offer, every day
and not just on special occasions.
READY TO CONTINUE your shopping
trip, visit Cotton and Company for lovely
children’s clothing and sturdy yet fashion-
able furniture. As you pass by Dreyer’s,
you might think that ice cream would melt
before it could be opened , but gift certifi-
cates are always fun for anyone who loves
good ice cream.
Past BART you’ll find FIT Clothes for
the Modern Lifestyle, bursting with holiday
and everyday wear that’s fashionable yet
classic. Past Oak Grove Avenue, you’ll find
See Jane Run, with a wide array of clothing,
shoes, and accessories for the active women
in your life. Up the block is the Christensen
Heller Gallery, with fine art, crafts, home
décor, and jewelry to fit a large variety of
tastes and budgets.
By now it may be late in the day, and
time for a snack or even dinner. The pos-
sibilities are many: Asian fusion cuisine
and sake at Grasshopper or Burmese food
at Nan Yang, classic burgers and shakes at
Claremont Diner or a late afternoon latte
at Royal Coffee or Spasso, a sinfully rich
cake at Katrina Rozelle Pastries & Desserts
to bring to a party that night, or maybe a
jewel-like fruit tart and morning bun for
tomorrow’s breakfast from La Farine (and
don’t forget to order your bûche de Noël in
time for the holidays).
Cross the street to see Homesteader, and
pick up a one-of-a-kind birdhouse, home
décor, or other collectable. Further on the
block, visit the Thelma Harris Art Gallery
for original art from various cultural tradi-
tions. On the floor below is Zip Mama’s, an
exciting fantasy of women’s clothing from
special occasion to flannel pajamas, along
with clever accessories and gifts. In the
next block is the Hazara Gallery, featuring
classic oriental rugs from small runners to
large room-size rugs.
Stop in at A Different Angle for
stunning color photographs and earthy
ceramics. Cross the street to visit Barloga
et Fils Gallery, with black and white or
color photography of European sights both
famous and private, as you’ve never seen
them before. Twenty two beckons nearby,
with stunning designer shoes, top-quality
bags, and silky socks. Continue on to Ildi
& Company, where you’ll be greeted by
a holiday fantasy of home accessories,
unusual gifts, beautiful jewelry, and table
décor, perfect for that dining table you saw
a few blocks back.
Probably no one could visit even one-
quarter of the stores in Rockridge in a day,
but fortunately you’ll have several weeks
to explore and shop before the holidays.
Details on all the stores mentioned and
many more are on the website http://ww
w.rockridgedistrict.com.
A visit to Hank and Frank Bicycles
reminds you why a new bike is the classic
holiday gift, and today there are so many
different choices. Across the street is Warm
Things, with all things down and cozy, from
slippers to light-as-air comforters. Nearby
Agatha Rainford offers classic and contem-
porary women’s clothing: glamorous hats,
holiday dresses and sweaters, unusual bags,
and humorous seasonal socks.
While you’re on the Avenue, be sure to
ride the Rockridge District Association’s
free Saturday trolley in December, travel-
ing on College from noon to 4pm between
Alcatraz and Broadway.
Time for a late lunch or mid-afternoon
snack, and again you have many options.
Hearty Chicago-style pizza at Zachary’s,
classic Mediterranean fare at Oliveto Café
and Restaurant with hearty soups and gour-
met sandwiches, interesting combination
omelets and crepes at Crepevine, and burg-
And be sure to keep an eye out for the
Prescott Clown decoration sale and per-
formances, and Santa’s visit to Rockridge
— watch the special holiday posters for
details of dates and times. And most of
all, appreciate the more relaxed pace of
shopping in one of the Bay Area’s most
interesting and diverse retail areas, seeing
neighbors and friends, savoring great food,
and supporting Oakland.
Crossing Claremont Avenue, you’ll see
Impressions Ink, offering an amazing array
of cards, creative gifts, and customized invi-
November Sales in Rockridge:
Address
Bd/Ba
List Price
Selling Price
Close Date
335 Glendale
2/1
$599,000
$685,000
11/07/2003
321 Glendale
3+/2
$740,000
$745,000
11/07/2003
358 Cavour St.
2+/1
$550,000
$610,000
11/07/2003
5223 Lawton Ave.
4/3
$649,000
$786,500
11/12/2003
6445 Benvenue Ave.
5/2+
$1,095,000
$1,050,000
11/14/2003
60 Westminister Dr.
5+/ 4+
$1,495,000
$1,450,000
11/14/2003
5273 Manila Ave.
2/1
$575,000
$580,000
11/14/2003
6481 Benvenue Ave.
2/1
$393,000
$450,000
11/20/2003
5942 Chabolyn Ter.
3/1+
$695,000
$752,700
11/20/2003
Happy Holidays!
December 6, 2003
8.
PostmarkTemescal
commercial and parking area, the street site
was chosen to encourage more beautifica-
tion of the up-and-coming arterial. People
have already begun enjoying picnics and
snacks there.
struct forms for concrete.
More than four years ago, the Berkeley
Land Company decided to develop its prop-
erty for commercial use about the same time
the U.S. Postal Service decided it needed a
better post office at that site. Neighborhood
residents collaborated in the planning. Rhita
Wilson of the Community Economic Devel-
opment Agency (CEDA) secured $15,000
of the $32,000 required for the public art
enhancements. Berkeley Land contributed
another $10,000, with the remaining $7,000
coming from smaller individual and group
contributions.
from page 1
It reminds passers-by that Temescal Creek
itself runs directly underneath. Low-water
native plants frame the installation, which
is on the west side of the Post Office build-
ing, facing Shattuck Avenue.
Project creators include sculptor-recy-
clist-art teacher Remi Rubel, Bruce Douglas,
Sue Mark, and artist Jeffrey Norman, who
provided the Temescal photographics at the
new Fire Station 8. Norman credits a team
of volunteers, contributors, and workers for
bringing the attractive area to life. John
Greenwood fabricated and helped design
the Temescal Creek Watershed sculpture.
Jimmy Petersen contributed his knowledge
of concrete construction. Volunteers in the
neighborhood lent their yard space to con-
Instead of placing the work inside the
Fire District
from page 1
Temescal Plaza’s official opening was
celebrated at a public gathering held at the
site on Saturday, October 18.
and community-based emergency train-
ing would be provided.
Many of these services have been pro-
vided in the City of Oakland budget for the
last several years. However, budget reduc-
tions and other city priorities will drain
funds from these projects, beginning with
the fiscal 2004-05 budget.
$5 FREE DRYCLEANING with garment orders over $28
or $3 OFF orders over $15
Dry Cleaning only Present with incoming order
Garden Cleaners
5808 College Ave., Oakland
EXPERT
If you got a ballot in the mail, you are in
the district, and if you did not, you are not.
If you are uncertain, City Fire Assessment
consultant Joe Francisco (925/867-3400) can
advise if your property is in the proposed
fire district.
SHIRT
LAUNDERING!
601-1188
Mon-Fri 7-7 • Sat 8-6
(Across from Albertson’s & Zachary’s Pizza)
Alarms
from page 3
with lists of their customers, to generate
the first mailing for permits. Once those
fees have been paid, OPD will send the
alarm companies a list of their customers
who are lacking a permit. OPD will charge
the company $250 to respond to a business
or residence that has no permit.
Many of the false alarms come from
businesses, says Holland, whose primary
responsibility is heading the Bureau of Inves-
tigations. These can often be eliminated by
reviewing and changing internal systems.
The new ordinance “is about being respon-
sible,” Holland says. “The vast majority of
homeowners already are.”
663-6674
9.
December 6, 2003
ZONING COUNTER
510/891-9555
Owner: Morteza Javaheri
Permits Required: Regular Design Review for
an addition to a residential structure
Case Planner: Robert D. Merkamp, 238-6283
or rmerkamp@oaklandnet.com
allow a group assembly commercial activity.
Case Planner: Miroo Desai Brewer, 238-6935
or mbrewer@oaklandnet.com
5665 COLLEGE AVENUE
Proposal: To install 3 roof top telecommunica-
tion antennas and related equipment cabinets
located in a garage on the ground floor of the
Market Hall building.
Applicant/Contact Person: Metro PCS/ Mary-
ann Miller, 510/919-3224
Owner: Anthony Wilson Associates
Permits Required: Conditional Use Permit and
Design Review
Case Planner: Jason Madani, 238-4790 or
jsmadani@oaklandnet.com
6431 HILLEGASS AVENUE
Proposal: Demolish existing detached acces-
sory structure (storage shed), construct new
detached accessory structure (artist studio).
Applicant: Philip Overbaugh 658-3972
Owner: John Gargani & Mary Kathryn Lynch
Permits Required: Special Residential Design
Review for new construction on a lot con-
taining one dwelling unit; Minor Variance to
allow an accessory facility located within the
required rear and side yard setbacks measur-
ing 12'-0" tall where 9'-0" is the maximum
height allowed.
Case Planner: Darin Ranelletti, 238-3663 or
dranelletti@oaklandnet.com
5362 COLLEGE AVENUE
Proposal: To demolish an existing commercial
structure and construct a new restaurant
Applicant: Jorge Maezono
Contact Person: Jorge Maezono 510/502-4109
Owner: Philip Chu/Dana Chow-Chu
Permits Required: Minor Conditional Use
Permit to allow construction of a new res-
taurant (general food sales) and Regular
Design Review
Case Planner: Robert D. Merkamp, 238-6283
or rmerkamp@oaklandnet.com
5418 COLLEGE AVENUE
Proposal: Establish an exercise and tanning
salon in a storefront in a retail building.
Applicant: Laz Martinez
Contact Person: Laz Martinez 415/348-5578
Owner: Paul Boero
Permits Required: Conditional Use Permit to
5609 OCEAN VIEW DRIVE
Proposal: To construct a two-story addition to
the rear of an existing single family dwelling.
Owner/Applicant: Howard Lasseter, 510/601-6729
Owner: Madeline Johnson & Jamie Pillers
Permits Required: Minor Variance to allow a
2'-8" side yard setback where 5'-0" minimum is
required, Design Review, residential addition.
Case Planner: Andrew M. Smith, 238-6414 or
asmith@oaklandnet.com
5468 MANILA AVENUE
Proposal: Construct a 441 sq ft, second story
addition to existing 1380 sq. foot single-family
dwelling on a 4,120 sq foot legal parcel.
Applicant: Baird Wheatley, 760/632-5317
Owner: Linda Fogel
Permits Required: Design Review for an addi-
tion to a single family dwelling. Minor Variance
to allow 2'8" side (east) yard setback where
5' is required.
Case Planner: Miro Desai Brewer, 238-6935
or mbrewer@oaklandnet.com
"SHOULD YOU
SAVE FOR YOUR
6426 [BENVENUE AVENUE]
(MISLABELED BY CITY AS 6426 “BENEVUE ST”)
Proposal: Construct a 1,253 sq ft addition to
an existing multi-family dwelling
Contact Person: FORM Architects/Sean Laal
KID'S COLLEGE
OR FOR YOUR
RETIREMENT?
TM
NEED MONEY?
OR BOTH?"
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easiest way to help a friend and earn some extra cash.
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1501 N. Broadway, Suite 255
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
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(510) 448-0088
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December 6, 2003
10.
The Drama Mamas – Born in Rockridge,
Now Playing San Francisco!
by Ann Daniels
W
The Drama Mamas warm
up for their next production
hat happens when a mother is born,
when a woman switches from being
the child of a mother to being the mother
of a child?
of “Stretch Marks.”
From left to right: Christine
Garofoli, Deborah Banks,
That’s the central question of the hit
show, “Stretch Marks: Growing Into Mother-
hood,” playing in San Francisco but created
right here in Rockridge.
Anna Melillo and
Christine Armand DiBiasi
SFSU” and Garofoli is a Direc-
tor of Marketing at Charles
Schwab in San Francisco.
It all started in the summer of 2002,
when Rockridge resident Sarah Cluff formed
a women’s writing group. Rockridge residents
Christine Garofoli and Jodi Schiller were among
the group that met at A Cuppa Tea on College
Avenue. After a few sessions, the three moth-
ers of young children realized their common
interest in writing about “mommyhood.”
Schiller, a former theater professional
and drama therapist who has, for a decade,
helped various clients give voice to their
stories, will be presenting a staged reading
of “Stretch Marks” as a benefit for Sherith
Israel in San Francisco and is also working
on a new play about relationships among
women.
When and Where to See
“Stretch Marks”:
At the Exit on Taylor Theatre in San
Francisco December 4-13 (with Garofoli and
DiBiasi). Look for the exhibit of breastfeed-
ing mommies and children’s art in the theater
lobby. Ask about the fundraiser for Chabot
Elementary, with over 30% of every ticket
sale going to Chabot Elementary School.
Tickets and information available through
http://www.DramaMamas.com.
Cluff and Schiller also realized that they
had both long wanted to write a play about
their experiences of becoming mothers, and
they recruited Garofoli to join them in the
project. A friend of Schiller recommended
San Franciscan Christine DiBiasi, and the
Drama Mamas were born.
“Stretch Marks” derives inspiration from
the Drama Mamas’ everyday lives and, of
course, from their children. Its four charac-
ters are loosely based on the original Mamas;
however, the women merged their stories
and experiences, and find that they – and
their audience members – identify with bits
and pieces of all the characters.
At Sherith Israel, 2266 California St, San
Francisco on December 7 at 2 pm (with Schil-
ler). This staged reading will be followed by
a discussion about how the play was written
and how you can create drama from your
own stories. A separate room filled with
toys will be available for little ones while
their parents watch the show. Proceeds go
to Sherith Israel’s Early Childhood Devel-
opment Program (www.sherithisrael.org).
$10 for members; $12 for non-members;
$5 for kids. For reservations or information,
call 415/346-1720 ext.32.
The foursome wrote, improvised, talked
about being moms, and eventually had an
open rehearsal at the Rockridge Library.
Nerves ran high, only DiBiasi and Schil-
ler had professional theatrical experience.
Garofoli had last been on stage in a critically
acclaimed elementary school production of
“The Mikado,” while Cluff’s last theater
production involved being laughed off
stage in her second-grade school play for
saying “The rings of Saturn can be seen
with the NAKED eye.” The women cou-
rageously invited friends and family, who
urged them on.
Garofoli says “Stretch Marks” strikes a
chord with both the players and the audi-
ence. “It’s been a good excuse for moms
to get out and see a bit of themselves and
their stories up on stage, validating a lot
of mommy experiences. And reaching out
to people in the mommy community has
been great!”
So, what happens when a mother is
born? You’ll have to see for yourself. The
box at following the article gives details of
forthcoming productions of the show.
And so, with Rockridge resident Grace
Walcott in the director’s chair, they mounted
a performance in San Francisco for Mother’s
Day (when else?) – and to their delight and
amazement, they won rave reviews and sold
out all shows.
OPEN DAILY 12 - 2
5352 College Avenue
During the summer of 2003, the original
Drama Mamas went different ways. Cluff
returned to work as a teacher, after being
home with her children for five years. DiBi-
asi and Garofoli and two other mommies
are producing a 12-show run of “Stretch
Marks” at the Exit on Taylor Theatre in San
Francisco (near Union Square). DiBiasi is
“(still) working on her Masters in Theater at
Your Neighborhood Pub
11.
December 6, 2003
Unwrapping the
I am in an M.C. Escher print. Over time,
every usable space has been occupied and
adapted to serve some sort of creative
activity. The walls and floors, all simple
redwood planks, are lumpy and bumpy.
There is no insulation anywhere. I am
aware of the sound of children’s laughter,
song, creaking floors, shouts of stage
directions, dancers’ footsteps, slamming
doors. The building is totally alive!
Julia Morgan
The Julia Morgan Center for the Arts
sits on the left-hand side of College
Avenue about a quarter mile north of Ashby
Avenue. If you’re not paying attention,
you’ll probably wind up driving or walking
right by it. Shrubs and trees obscure what
is in fact a sprawling 22,000-square-foot
brown-shingled building complex with
several annexes. The façade is difficult
to see, the doors are locked, and the
roof is graced by a cross, confusing the
issue even more for some.
by Ortrun Niesar
“Another dimension to be explored,”
thinks Patrick Dooley, director of the
Shotgun Players, the new acclaimed resident
theater group. Patrick is already working
on how he can incorporate the unique
spatial concepts the building presents
into his plays. Be looking for what he
comes up with.
Afor a community arts venue such as this
creates its own momentum. Whatever it
is, The Julia Morgan Center for the Arts,
currently under the direction of Sabrina
Klein, not only survives but thrives as
a place where artists and community
come together to work, perform, and
experience art.
But you have arrived. This is the
place.
Originally designed in 1910 by
Julia Morgan to serve as St. John’s
Presbyterian Church, the barn-like
building metamorphosed into a center
for the performing arts in the early
1970s, when the church moved to more
modern quarters across the street. The
Center was threatened more than once
by financial and structural failure over
the ensuing decades.
t present, the Julia Morgan houses the
Berkeley Ballet Theater, the Shotgun
Players, Kaleidoscope Performing Arts
Camps, Music Together, The Yoga Room,
Español for Kids, salsa lessons (every
Friday night, not expensive), and Heart’s
Leap Preschool. These are great resources
for imaginative stocking stuffers:
The building’s main attraction is a
328-seat theater (which, by the way, is
available for rent). Comfortable chairs
have replaced the pews; a decent light
and sound system support a 30- by 40-
foot sprung stage. But what’s even more
impressive is that the complex has ample
rehearsal spaces, as well as classrooms
where professional actors, musicians, and
dancers can offer instruction for people
of all ages. Children and young people
are especially welcome.
Kaleidoscope offers three-day
arts camps for kids during the
holidays.
Its survival is not only a testimony to
the intrinsic beauty and spiritual nature
of the building itself but also to the fierce
loyalty of the neighboring community
and the astounding dedication of some
awesome local individual supporters. It
could be, too, that the overpowering need
Hurry if you would like tickets for
the BBT’s Nutcracker ballet, great
for kids.
As I wend my way through dark hallways
and over odd staircases I admit I feel like
The Shotgun Players will be
performing The Death of Meyerhold
January 8 to 25.
I N R O C K R I D G E
And reserve Saturday, February 14,
for Julia’s Cabaret, a Valentine’s Day
celebration and benefit for “our”
Julia Morgan Center for the Arts.
Call the Center at 845-8542 for
all information. Their website is
www.juliamorgan.org. Wishing you a
wonderful holiday!
Ortrun
Niesar
can
be
reached
at
oniesar@aol.com or 510/986-9560.
Perfect Presents!
ILDI & CO.
Adornment for Home & Self
T I M W R I G H T
E L E C T R I C A L C O N T R A C T I N G
5902 College Avenue, Oakland 510.655.1164
Holiday Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:30-7,
Friday - Saturday 10-6, Sunday 11-6
2831 Hillegass Avenue, Berkeley
Phone: 510.729.5352 / Fax: 510.549.9251
License# 729761
December 6, 2003
12.
LIVING IN ROCKRIDGE: AN OPINION BY HIROKO KURIHARA
Celebrate! Elizabeth House:
Sustainable Living Through Cooperative Living
O
ne question the Rockridge community could be asking itself
lately is, “Where are we going as a neighborhood?” Some of
us wonder how sustain a vibrant neighborhood, both economically
and socially. Well, if you believe that everything is inter-connected,
these questions can apply to every aspect of life. Oakland and
Rockridge hold a richness that not many other communities can
claim. We have diverse opinions, multifaceted backgrounds, and
different economic and educational experiences. Here in Rock-
ridge, on Colby Street north of Alcatraz Avenue, is a household
with a creative multi-family structure that practices unique ways
of supporting each other.
are two staff members who receive a stipend. Courtnay Redis,
the director, will be celebrating her 9th year this year. There are
up to 60 volunteers involved at any given time. Together with
residents, they create a living environment that is modeled as
well as taught.
Elizabeth House does not seek government funding and mostly
relies on foundations, donations and other fundraising events like
the Art Auction. Elizabeth House also has partnerships with a
very long list of local merchants (thank you, all!).
Aiming for a higher quality of life, residents share cooperatively
and learn about effective communication. Residents also learn
how to run ‘the House.’ There are communal meals to coordi-
nate…everyone helps. Regular house meetings always start with
a reflection, which might be in the form of a poem or someone’s
own personal thoughts. A higher quality of life also includes the
practice of ‘green cleaning’ techniques and maintaining physical
and emotional health.
Elizabeth House is an example of how real communities are
built so that they are mutually supportive and contribute to the
vibrancy of a neighborhood. Elizabeth House is a place where
women and their children can live safely together. Most are home-
less or facing homelessness or escaping domestic violence. ‘The
House’ can accommodate 9 families and their children in family
quarters for up to 2 years. A converted convent, this spirit-full
place is not seen as a ‘program that helps the homeless’ or as a
‘transitional shelter.’ Most of the kids simply say: “I live in the
house down the street.” And is it the first real home that some of
the children have ever experienced.
Elizabeth House usually becomes the last step before finding
permanent, affordable housing. Families live independently, having
woven together solid support systems. Finding safe, affordable
housing in the Bay Area is the biggest challenge that Elizabeth
House residents encounter. How sustainable or diverse is our
community if we cannot provide housing to all who may want
to live in Rockridge?
To live here, families must demonstrate a need, though not
always financial, and there is a thorough screening process that
includes a visit and an interview with current residents. Mothers
and grandmothers have the opportunity to save money (although
they pay a monthly rent of $320 to Elizabeth House). They may
either find a job or advance in their current jobs. Classes and
presentations are given regularly, and the kids ‘enjoy’ homework
club everyday.
Adriana Jones, a former resident, said that when she was
ready to leave Elizabeth House about a year and a half ago, she
really wanted to be able to stay in the neighborhood. She loved
Rockridge and the people “because they were friendly and it
didn’t seem like it was a prejudiced area.” She was amazed to
see that people could jog and walk dogs whenever they wanted
to in Rockridge.
ELIZABETH HOUSE, TOP OF NEXT PAGE
Elizabeth House is unusual too in that staff and a few volun-
teers can live on the premises in return for their services. There
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13.
December 6, 2003
Elizabeth House
Rockridge would be the ideal place, she
says, to bring more families to. The neigh-
borhood is safe and you don’t need a car
and it’s easy to live here if you are older.
Creating access to this neighborhood is a
complicated issue and could be a challeng-
ing process. But Ms. Lorraine has proven
her determination; she may, along with our
community, just find a way.
from previous page
Hiroko Kurihara is a member of the RCPC Board
of Directors and owner of a socially responsible
textile creations company that donates a scarf
or blanket for every item sold. HK Designs is a
partner with Elizabeth House.
But she wasn’t able to find a place that
she could afford. The staff at Elizabeth
House were able to provide lots of sup-
port and reminded her to “do what is in
your heart and don’t be discouraged.” So
Adriana persisted in finding what we all
want and some of us enjoy; a safe, walkable
place to live. She now lives in Berkeley near
a BART station.
Lorraine Neasely (known as Ms. Lor-
raine) faces the same challenge. She is 73
and the legal guardian of her two grand-
children, Devonte, who attends Washington
Elementary School, and Darrold, who
attends Claremont Middle School (with a
full scholarship to Head Royce next year).
She also worries about where they will
go next.
Fate took a twisted turn, as it can happen
to any of us, and she found herself caring
for her grandchildren instead of retiring and
traveling. Ms. Lorraine lived for 27 years
her own home in the Laurel District, where
she ran a childcare business for many years.
She is wise and accomplished (at one point
in her life she sat on a National Advisory
body appointed by Ronald Reagan) and
driven (she hopes to open her own ‘transi-
tional home’ for grandmothers taking care
of their grandchildren).
Elizabeth House residents gathered in the garden one recent sunny day.
Come Celebrate With
lamps, beds, etc.)
Elizabeth House could also use help
with Web site maintenance and donations
are always receivable along the side door
where there are instructions and a short
form to fill out in order to receive your
tax deductible donation receipt. (Please,
no more than 3 bags at a time).
Your Neighbors
At the 9th Annual Elizabeth House
Open House, 6423 Colby Street,
December 12, 3:00 – 8:00pm.
Bring family and friends.
Wish List: House warming items for
Elizabeth House residents for when
they enter their own homes! (small
appliances like toasters and vacuums,
silverware, flatware, linens, towels,
Please contact Elizabeth House
directly for more information on dona-
tions and volunteering at 658-1380 or
visit www.oakehouse.org.
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville...............The T
The T
The T
The T
The Team Y
eam Y
eam Y
eam Y
eam You Can T
ou Can T
ou Can T
ou Can T
ou Can Trust
rust
rust
rust
rust
At this joyous time
At this joyous time
At this joyous time
At this joyous time
At this joyous time
I take special pleasure in
I take special pleasure in
I take special pleasure in
I take special pleasure in
I take special pleasure in
wishing you a Happy Holiday
wishing you a Happy Holiday
wishing you a Happy Holiday
wishing you a Happy Holiday
wishing you a Happy Holiday
Season. Serving you has been a
Season. Serving you has been a
Season. Serving you has been a
Season. Serving you has been a
Season. Serving you has been a
sincere joy.
sincere joy.
sincere joy.
sincere joy.
sincere joy.
Shannon Klatt
Shannon Klatt
Shannon Klatt
Shannon Klatt
Shannon Klatt
Buyer Specialist Realtor
(510) 339-4281 direct line
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Mary Jane McConville
Senior Realtor
(510) 339-4280 direct line
Call
Call
Call
Call
Call Mary Jane
Mary Jane
Mary Jane
Mary Jane
Mary Jane today
today
today
today
today for all your Real Estate needs
for all your Real Estate needs
for all your Real Estate needs
for all your Real Estate needs
for all your Real Estate needs
(510) 339-8400
(510) 339-8400
(510) 339-8400
(510) 339-8400
(510) 339-8400 office
office
office
office
office ♦www
www
www
www
www.MaryJaneMcConville.com
.MaryJaneMcConville.com
.MaryJaneMcConville.com
.MaryJaneMcConville.com
.MaryJaneMcConville.com
Jan Carlisle
Jan Carlisle
Jan Carlisle
Jan Carlisle
Jan Carlisle
Administrative Assistant
Linda Fino
Linda Fino
Linda Fino
Linda Fino
Linda Fino
Escrow Coordinator
1IPUP,BSFO3VTUFO
December 6, 2003
14.
Nikken Products
5 filter air cleaner with HEPA and ionizer; 1
micron water faucet filter; shower head filter;
magnetic sleep system; far-infared comfort-
ers; pet nutritionals. More. Rockridge Wellness
Consultant. Lani 655-5075.
Your Message Could Be Here
Your 36-word message: $18 (phone number
counts as one word). Mail to: RN Classifieds,
5245 College Avenue, PMB 311, Oakland, CA
94618. January deadline is December 11.
Casual Yard Work, Rockridge
Need man or woman two hours twice a month, no
lawn. $15/hr. Leave message, days: 658-5958.
Work From Home
Earn $500 $5000 P/T to F/T. Full Training Provided.
Local Interview. Bilingual positions available.
For free information: 510/618-7670
Pilates or Gyrotonic®
Try a FREE 30 minute BUZZ Session.CLASSES:
First Class Free in Pilates MAT, NIA®, Yoga,
Yogilates and/or Yamuna® Body Rolling.
Workshops & Teacher Training Certifications.
Mind-Body Connection, 5255 College Ave.,
420-0444 (www.mindbodyconnection.net)
Home Repair Expert
Carpentry, remodeling. Doors and windows,
glass and locks, small electrical, plumbing jobs,
drywall, painting, fences, decks and other odd
jobs. Good rates. Rick 510.464-5934
Rockridge Resident
Leila S. Gough
leila.gough@agedwards.com
Jazz and Classical Piano Lessons
Rockridge jazz pianist with UC Berkeley
music B.A. offers lessons in jazz, blues, clas-
sical, music theory, ear-training, technique.
Experienced, patient teacher, all ages/levels.
Janet 653-6783.
1999 Harrison Street, #2050
Oakland, CA 94612
Dynamic Duo
Two multi-talented, creative women with
design experience and organizational skills.
Space management-transform any space
with minimum cost and effort. Wardrobe
assistance, sewing, painting, framing/hanging
pictures, odd jobs/hauling shopping/errands,
510/693-1244.
Temporary Room Rental
Having out of town guests and nowhere to put
them? Large, sunny room available in Craftsman
home in Rockridge/Elmwood area. See website
for photos and info. http://geocities.com/
cayenne2810 or call 510.547-8788.
Craftsman Wooden Blinds
Dress up your home with beautiful wooden
window treatments. Selling 3 sets of 1-1/4"
wide interior hardwood blinds that fit traditional
craftsman windowsets: 112" x 53" ($595 each) and
72" x 53" ($395). Contact Sally, 653-6430.
Help With Your Mac
Are you frustrated with your Macintosh?
Want to do more with your computer but
don’t know how? Apple alumna is available
for house and office calls: advice, training and
solutions. Rachel 658-7691.
Exercise Bike
For sale $100, Lifecycle Aerobic Trainer (model
6500). Has computer program, operations
manual, hardly used, cost about $1500 new,
mint condition, top of the line, gym quality. Call
Margaret 655-3348 or maphil42@aol.com
15.
December 6, 2003
Compiled by Jo Ellis
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Check Your…
E-mail Rockridge News Community Calendar items to: joellis1@hotmail.com, phone 653-3210, or mail to: Rockridge News
Community Calendar, 5245 College Avenue, PMB 311, Oakland, CA 94618. Deadline is the next to the last Tuesday of the month.
Councilmember Jane Brunner’s
Community Advisory Meeting
Writer’s Support/Critique Group
SPECIAL EVENT: “A Holiday Dance Party” on
Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2 to 6pm. Prizes and
refreshments. Donation of $8.00 to benefit the
Center’s program fund. Learn the dance steps.
Line dancing on Wed., beginners, 12:30 to 1pm:
advanced, 1 to 2pm. Also, learn ballroom dancing
on Mondays, 1 to 3pm. The Newsletter, “North
Oakland Senior Times” provides a full schedule
of classes as well as a monthly menu for lunch:
(suggested donation: seniors age 60 + $2.00 and
$4.00 for those under age 60). Call 597- 5085
to get details about membership, newsletter,
class or appointment times, and opportunities to
become a volunteer.
Elder Care Support Group
Rockridge Branch Library. 1st Saturday of the
month: 2:30 to 5:30pm. ALL writers welcome.
Bring 6 copies of 5 pages of your prose for on-site
reading/discussion. Sponsored by the California
Writers Club, Berkeley branch (www.berkeleyw
ritersclub.org/). More information: 482-0265 or
Writefox@aol.com
College Avenue Holiday Festivities
First Saturday every other month, 10am to noon.
Peralta Elementary School: 460 63rd St. (parking
on Alcatraz Ave., just east of Telegraph). No meet-
ing in January. Get topic for February at 238-7001
or www.oaklandnet.com.
Oakland City Council Meeting
Every Tuesday, 7pm, City Hall
Oakland Planning Commission
Ride the free trolley along College Avenue on
Saturday, December 6, 13 and 20, from 12 to 4pm.
Visit Santa’s House at 5467 College Ave. from 12:
30 to 2:30pm and get your picture taken with Santa.
Sponsored by the Rockridge District Association.
For more information call Susan Older, 604-3125 or
info@rockridgedistrict.com.
Farewell Tribute: G & G Hardware
1st and 3rd Wednesday each month, 6:
30pm, City Hall. Get agendas and details at
www.oaklandnet.com.
The Greater Rockridge N'hood
Crime Prevention Council
Alta Bates Medical Center, Herrick Campus, 2001
Dwight Way, Berkeley, 3rd floor, room 3369B
(take elevator B). Free for family/friends caring
for older adults. 3rd Wednesday of each month,
4-5:30pm
For information on all support/education groups
offered by Alta Bates/Sutter Health: call Monica
at 802-1725 or e-mail Monicalcsw@alum.calbe
rkeley.org.
Volunteers Needed
Steering Committee meets 3rd Tuesday each
month, 7 to 8:30pm., Fire Station #8 community
room, 463 51st Street. Residents and business
members of NCPC areas 12Y and 13X are invited
to voice their concerns about crime and public
safety.
Rockridge Branch Library
Neighbors in Rockridge are invited to join the Temes-
cal Merchants Association to honor Mike, Ann and
Sharon for 57 years of service to our neighborhood.
Saturday, December 13, 6 to 8pm (ceremony at 7pm):
refreshments will be served.
Temescal Café, 4920 Telegraph Ave. For more informa-
tion, call Carlo Busby at Sagrada, 653-7196.
Free Comedy Showcase & Open Mic
5366 College Avenue, 597-5017. Rockridge
Library will be giving out little treats on December
6 to celebrate our library system’s 125th birthday.
FOR CHILDREN:
• Toddler Story Time, Saturday, 10:30am: 12/6,
• Alameda County Community Food Bank:
All welcome, including groups and kids age 10
or older. Assist in the warehouse or office; staff
the Hunger Hotline, the Food Bank’s toll-free
food referral service. Hotline shifts Mon-Fri,
9am-12pm and 1-4pm. Call Volunteer Mgr. Mary
Schoen: 834-FOOD(3663) or www.accfb.org.
• Oakland Elizabeth House: A Transitional
Residence for Women and Children in Rockridge.
6423 Colby St., Oakland. Residential and support
services to homeless and low-income women and
children. Orientation and training for new volun-
teers. Help with childcare, homework, mentoring,
field trips and house chores. Call 658-1380, ext.4,
or e-mail volunteer@oakhouse.org.
• Oakland Parents Literacy Project: Com-
munity Activists for Reading Excellence (CARE)
program. Volunteer one day or evening per
month, at a School Clean Up or a Family Reading
Night. As the premier literacy program in the
district, OPLP hosts Family Reading Nights at 37
Oakland Schools, including two events each at
Emerson, Santa Fe, and Golden Gate Elementary
Schools. Care members are eligible for various
benefits and prizes. George Willcoxon, Program
Director: 889-5903 or www.oplp.org.
• Bambino Thrift Shop: All Volunteer Shop
benefiting OaklandChildren’s Hospital.
5290 College Ave. Volunteers needed Tuesdays
through Saturdays. We will train you to help with
pricing, selling and merchandise display. Call
manager, Carol Maes: 654-9709.
• North Oakland Community Charter School
(NOCCS): tutors to work with 1st to 4th graders,
one-on-one or in small groups, on math skills,
beginning reading and writing skills. Weekly time
commitment of at least one hour. Located at
College Ave. Presbyterian Church (next to Dryers
ice cream). Contact Jennifer Bloom, Director:
655-0540 or teachers@noccs.org.
Start your career in comedy at A’Cuppa Tea, 3200
College Ave, (corner of Alcatraz). Every Tuesday,
7:30 to 9pm. Be there by 7pm to sign up. ALSO: Call
420-0196 to find out about free acoustic music
performances from 7 to 9pm.
Diesel Book/Poetry Readings
12/13, 1/3, 1/10.
• Pre-School Story Hours, Wednesday, 10:30 &
11am: 12/17, 1/7.
• Pajama Story Time, Tuesday, 7pm: 12/9, 12/23,
5433 College Ave. All events are free and open to the
public.
• Sunday, 12/7, 2pm, Poetry reading by students of
1/6.
SPECIAL EVENTS:
• Craft session for ages 8 through adult. Make
Elizabeth Robinson’s MFA Poetry Writing Class at
California College of the Arts.
• Sunday, 12/7, noon to 5pm, Amnesty Interna-
beads from magazine pictures and create
jewelry. No pre sign-up; all materials provided.
Saturday, 12/13, 2 to 3:30pm.
• Oakland Public Theater performance of “The
tional: Celebrating International Human Rights
Day with a letter-writing campaign at the store.
• Sunday, 12/14, 2pm, Bay Area Cookbook Signing:
Wind in the Willows,” chapter 3 on Tuesday,
December 16, 7pm.
FOR ADULTS:
• Lawyers in the Library: Free legal advice.
Contributors from Cesar, the Cheese Board and
Zuni Café cookbooks will discuss their books and
offer samples of their food.
For more inf. about readings, discussion groups and
classes: 653-9965 or www.dieselbookstore.com.
College Avenue Adult Center
First Tuesday of each month, from 6 to 8pm.
Advance sign-up 5pm.
• SPECIAL EVENT: Saturday, 1/31 from 1-3:30pm.
Call by Wednesday, 12/28, to sign up for 25
spaces. “Writing from the Soul”: Free workshop
with Suzanne West, M.A., Chair of the Dept. of
Liberal Arts, JFK University.
College Ave. Presbyterian Church, 5955 College Ave.
Every Wednesday, from 9:30am to 1:30pm. Light
exercise, socializing, travel programs and music.
Hot lunch available at noon for $2.00. SPECIAL EVENT:
Christmas Party, December 17! For details about
upcoming field trips and special programs, call
Kathy at 531-6724.
North Oakland Multi-Purpose
Senior Center
NEW LIBRARY HOURS:
TUESDAY, 12:30 to 8pm
WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, SATURDAY, 10am to 5:30pm
FRIDAY, 12 to 5:30pm SUNDAY AND MONDAY: CLOSED
NOTE: closed 12/24, 12/25, 1/1/2004
Also, (pending union negotiations), as part of City-wide furlough,
all libraries may be closed 12/26 and 1/2. Call to confirm.
Rockridge Toastmasters
5714 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. Center Hours:
Monday – Friday, 8:45am to 4:45pm. Variety of com-
puter classes, workshops, educational/social events,
walking groups and field trips.
NEW: MASSAGE SERVICES, Monday and Wednesday. Call
for appointment.
Every Tuesday, 7pm, Veterans Building, 200 Grand
Ave., Oakland. Improve public speaking skills in a
friendly and supportive environment.
For information: Kathy, 601-6176 or e-mail
www.rockridgetoastmasters.org
December 6, 2003
16.
Don Coelho
339-4721
27th year
serving Rockridge!
Buying or selling real estate in 2003?
Call me… the proven professional
Flush with
Confidence
Live ... Work ... Play
www.
• •
.com
• Sewer Pipe Diagnostics
• Trouble Shooting & Repair
• Trenchless Sewer Replacement
('*#++" &,(*/ *,'"*
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510/465-3000
Berkeley – Oakland – Rockridge
*('%*#++$)+'",
“I Know Rockridge”
Q Jeffrey Auen Q
ORTRUN NIESAR
Rockridge Real Estate Marketing Consultant
Buyers, Sellers, Investors
Choose a Full Service
Realtor. Residential
& Investment sales,
renovation consulting,
proven strategies to
increase value.
Full Service
Pre- and Post-Sale.
25 Years in Rockridge
Direct: 510/986-9560
www.HomesEastBay.info
Email: oniesar@aol.com
1.800.805.8827
Century 21
Terry Kulka
339-4789
Proven Results in Selling Rockridge Homes.
Providing top quality service to
buyers and sellers of fine homes for 1 years.
A proud supporter of
Chabot Elementary School.
Jan Fougner
OWNER – BROKER
BUYING OR SELLING IN
ROCKRIDGE? IF YOU
NEED THE SERVICES
OF A REALTOR, CALL
ME. I HAVE 26 YEARS
OF ROCKRIDGE SALES
EXPERIENCE AND THE
EXPERTISE YOU NEED.
6 5 5 - 2 3 3 0
ROCKRIDGE
R
E
A
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T
Y
6 0 1 9 C O L L E G E AV E N U E
KEVIN BROWN
Broker
654-8707 or 593-4780
PROVIDING
Professional,
Full Service
Real Estate Brokerage
To Rockridge Clients
For Over 24 Years.
SPECIALIZING IN
Residential Sales
Income Property
Commercial
Property Management
Better Homes
Realty
5353 College Avenue
Oakland