Extracted text · highlighting “Ellen Peterson”

www.rockridge.org

VOL. 24   NO. 2    ISSUE NO. 253    February 7, 2009  
 CIRCULATION: 5,100 Residences; 200 Businesses

Sponsored by the Rockridge Community Planning Council • 5245 College Ave. PMB 311 • Oakland, CA 94618 • 869-4200

Caldecott Lawsuit Settled Under Threat from Governor

by Stuart Flashman, attorney for the
Fourth Bore Coalition
Governor Schwarzenegger’s demand that
the Caldecott Improvement Project –
also known as the Caldecott Tunnel Fourth
Bore Project – move forward, plus the
intervention of the legislature’s Democratic
leadership, pressured the Caldecott Tunnel
Fourth Bore Coalition (FBC), which includes
RCPC among its members, into accepting
a settlement of its lawsuit over adding the
fourth bore to the tunnel.
Although less than what the FBC hoped
for from its suit, the settlement terms are an
improvement over what Caltrans had offered
during extended discussions last year.
West portal of the
Caldecott Tunnel.
A suit brought by several
community groups, including
RCPC, has been settled, clearing
the way for construction of
a fourth bore. Among other
settlement terms, Caltrans
agreed to limit construction
impacts including noise, dirt
and traffic, and to make
improvements to Frog Park.
Photo: RNews File
As reported in January’s Rockridge
News, the Governor, in the name of provid-
ing an “economic stimulus,” proposed a
retroactive exemption from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for
the Caldecott project and 10 other highway
projects. He stated flatly that he would not
sign an amended budget unless it included
those exemptions, effectively holding the
State budget hostage.
The Democratic legislative leadership,
and particularly Senate President Pro Tem
Darrell Steinberg, strongly opposed this
move. Nevertheless, the FBC was told can-
didly that, given solid Republican support
and other legislators’ fear of being blamed
for the State’s insolvency, the CEQA exemp-
tion was likely to pass. The result would
have been to derail and negate the pending
RCPC Town Hall Meeting
AGENDA
February 2009
Fourth Bore Suit, page 6
¤
¤

Thursday, February 19, 7:30 p.m.
Rockridge Branch Library,
5366 College Avenue at Manila,
Community Room (Upstairs)
Merchant Group Talks Business at RCPC’s
January Meeting

RCPC Annual Town Hall
Planning Meeting
B
■
■
ecome informed on current
RCPC board projects
Help set the RCPC board
■
■
by Colby Lavin, RCPC boardmember
Rockridge boasts many unique stores
and services. Shopping locally helps
preserve a focal point of our community.
Nevertheless, members of the Rockridge
District Association (RDA) say College
Avenue’s retail success will be strongly tested
in 2009. Merchants plan to meet that test
with redoubled efforts to publicize College
Avenue as a rewarding urban retail center.
Speaking at the January RCPC Town Hall
meeting, new RDA staff members Tiffany
Copland, Executive Director in charge of
events, public relations, marketing board
meetings, and administrative business, and
Chris Jackson, Operations Manager in charge
of streetscape concerns and security, joined
RDA President Sara Wilson to discuss the
group’s organization and projects.
priorities for 2009
Hear ideas and concerns
■
■
from the community and
RCPC’s board
Each year, the RCPC board hosts a
community-wide meeting to hear
At the January RCPC Town Hall
meeting, Rockridge District Association
(RDA) officers discussed College
Avenue’s retail business and potential
economic challenges the association
expects to face in 2009. From left,
Operations Manager Chris Jackson,
RDA President Sara Wilson, and
Executive Director Tiffany Copland.

                              Photo: Don Kinkead
RCPC Town Hall, page 10
¤
¤
Remember:
☛ RCPC Wants YOU!
As reported in the January Rockridge
News, the Rockridge Community
Planning Council (RCPC) board elections
are at hand. There could be a slot for you
as a member of the Board of Directors of
The current state of College Avenue
retail and plans to maintain the successful
retail district were also covered.
RCPC Election, page 8
¤
¤
RCPC Meeting, page 12
¤
¤


2.

February 7, 2009

In My Opinion

ROCKRIDGE BRANCH LIBRARY
5366 College Avenue
597-5017
HOURS:
Mon, Tues:
Weds, Thurs, Sat:
Friday:
Sunday:
Library program details: See Calendar, page 15.

North Oakland Condo Projects Modified as
Economy Worsens; Some are Redesigned

12:30 – 8 p.m.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
12 – 5:30 p.m.
CLOSED
by Bob Brokl
The Planning Commission recently unani-
mously approved the more-than 100
unit condominium high-rise “Creekside”
project (dubbed “Creekover,” by wags),
where the Global Video building currently
stands at Telegraph Avenue and 51st Street.
Now, given the state of the economy, there
is no certainty when that project will be
built. But the building has been emptied
of tenants, costing jobs and lost retail tax
dollars, plus the built-in security that would
result from its active use.
Seemingly abandoned, the building has
been vandalized. Hauser Architects, the San
Francisco-based firm behind Creekside,
has informed the Planning Commission
that salvageable metals and mechanical
systems have been stripped by vandals.
Although “for lease” signs are posted, the
neighboring Christmas tree lot operators
flocked trees in the former video store. The
building is now doubly trashed.
Glass doors have been smashed and are
secured by only a bicycle lock. Trespass-
ers are getting in, putting the neighboring
apartment building and its tenants at risk
from crime and vandalism.
Adjusting to the downturn
The good, if overlooked, news is that
some condominium developers have already
adjusted to the economic downturn. Follow-
ing are just a few examples of developers
who are downsizing expectations and rehab-
bing buildings that, in the overheated past,
were to be demolished for condominiums.
Sometimes thinking smaller through adap-
tive reuse is smart.
The Exemplary (Honor Roll):
4629 MLK Jr. Way (opposite
■
■
The Rockridge News, founded in 1986 by Don Kinkead,
is published monthly in Oakland and is sponsored by
the Rockridge Community Planning Council (RCPC),
a nonprofit 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.
Rockridge News Production
Don Kinkead	�����������������������Editor
Ortrun Niesar.....................The Muse
Barry Kaufman	�������������������Food
Jo Ellis	�����������������������������������Advertising &
Community Calendar
Theresa Nelson	��������������������Neighborhood Merchant
Susan Montauk	�������������������Business Manager
Don Kinkead	�����������������������Graphics & Layout
RCPC Board of Directors, 2008-2009
Stuart Flashman	�����������������Chair
Ronnie Spitzer	��������������������Vice-Chair
Danica Truchlikova	������������Secretary
Joan Martin	��������������������������Treasurer
Jason Burke, Annette Floystrup, Jonathan Gabel,
William Kaufner, Don Kinkead, Colby Lavin,
Katy Taylor, Doug Patton, Ellen Peterson
Contact the Board: chair@rockridge.org
For information: info@rockridge.org
main campus of Children’s
Hospital)
The owner reconsidered condos, and
beautifully rehabbed an unreinforced
masonry, “A” rated, former Grove Street cable
car barn into office/commercial use.
4701 Shattuck
■
■
The developer, who’d said that nothing
short of a high-rise condo project “pencilled-
out,” kept the former ground floor saloon with
apartments above building – built in 1908 – and
is rehabbing it into commercial space.
Artesia Townhouses,
■
■
Newsletter Subscriptions
To subscribe to The Rockridge News, send
your check for $20, payable to Rockridge News
Subscriptions, to: Rockridge News Subscriptions at
the address below.
Contacting The Rockridge News
	 Are there community issues you’d like to see
covered in The Rockridge News?
	 Do you have questions about newsletter
distribution?
	 Want to volunteer to be a Rockridge News
block captain?
	 Would you like to write a letter to the Editor?
Contact us at one of the following:
Editor: editor@rockridge.org
www.rockridge.org
The Rockridge News, 5245 College Avenue,
PMB 311, Oakland, CA 94618
RCPC Voicemail: 510/869-4200
49th and Shattuck
This low-rise, 3-story condo project is
nearing completion. The proposed building
was within zoning and required no vari-
ances, but was fine-tuned for design at the
planning staff level. No EIRs, no drawn-out
fights with neighbors, no blight.
Battered by vandals and a shifting
economy, the Global Video building
now stands empty.             Photo: RNews
A Second Look, page 8
¤
¤
Articles submitted for publication may be e-mailed
to the above address. Submissions are limited to
600 words; must include the author’s name, phone
number, e-mail address, and city or neighborhood
of residence; and are subject to editing. To reprint a
Rockridge News article, please contact the editor.
Small Office Specialists
Small Office Specialists
Cl
e
o
r
si
For a kitchen,
consult a kitchen expert.
For a closet,
find a closet designer.
For your office,
come to us.
5933 College Ave. (off Claremont) Oakland, 510-654-9500
1265 Veterans Blvd., Redwood City, 650-365-7800
o
n
t
g
S
Newsletter Advertising/Deadlines
Publication date of the next issue is
All Floor Models &
Accessories
20-70% OFF
 March 7, 2009
 March deadline is February 19.
Advertising rates are $26/column inch. Six-
month pre-pay rate available. For display ads,
call Jo Ellis at 653-3210 (after noon), or e-mail
joellis1@hotmail.com. RCPC reserves the right to
refuse any display or classified ad that it deems
inappropriate. (Classified ad contact, page 14.)
WWW.GALVINS.COM


3.
February 7, 2009

The RCPC Land Use Committee meets the
fourth Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m.,
at the Rockridge Library.
Next meeting: Wednesday, February 25, 2009
RCPC General Fund
P&L DATA

RCPC 2008
Financial Statement
Fiscal Year ended December 31, 2008
Income
(cash basis)
Rockridge News
42,440
$
Kitchen Tour
190
Interest Income
836
Other Income
1,737
Total Income
45,203
Expenses
Rockridge News
34,800
Other Program Expenses
5,202
Kitchen Tour
-
Legal & Accounting
3,301
Insurance, Permits
1,739
Sales Tax
182
Misc. Administrative Expenses
1,306
Total Expenses
46,530
Net Receipts
(1,327)
Friends of the Rockridge Library (FORL)
Income
Donations
6,257
Membership Donations
4,623
Merchandising (book & totebag sales)
4,029
Interest Income
820
Total Income
15,729
Expenses
Furniture Repairs
3,600
Gifts to the Library
1,246
Library Scholarship
2,700
Merchandise purchase & sales tax
1,938
Misc. Administrative Expenses
966
Total Expenses
10,451
Net Receipts
5,278
Friends of the Rockridge Greenbelt (FROG)
Income
Donations
Merchandising (tee-shirts)
-
Interest Income
360
Total Income
360
Expenses
Bank Charges
233
Grants
5,000
Playground New Construction
Playground Maintenance & Bathroom
2,422
Programs
160
Website/internet
401
Misc. Administrative Expenses
384
Total Expenses
8,601
Net Receipts
(8,241)
Whistlestop Committee
Income
Merchandising (whistles)
114
Expenses
Merchandising (whistles)
Grants

Land Use Update
by Stuart Flashman,
RCPC Land Use Committee chair
its consideration, holding a separate meeting
to present the local architects’ plans to the
community, and simply asking Safeway to
drop its plans for a new store and proceed
with cooperative planning for a modest
remodel of the current store.
These options will be discussed over
the coming weeks. Community opinion is
important to the discussion. You may mail
your views to RCPC, 5245 College Avenue,
PMB 311, Oakland, 94618, or write via
e-mail to chair @rockridge.org.
College Avenue Safeway
■
■
Rebuild (6310 College Avenue
at Claremont)
The participants in Safeway’s “stake-
holder process” — including RCPC, the
Claremont Elmwood Neighborhood Asso-
ciation, the Rockridge District Association,
Neighbors Concerned about the College
Avenue Safeway, College Avenue merchants
neighboring Safeway along College, and
residents living behind Safeway along
Alcatraz Avenue — decided unanimously
to request of Safeway that the upcoming
(and perhaps final) community stakeholder
meeting include presentations of Safeway’s
corporate plans for a new 50,000 square foot
store and an alternate design being prepared
by a group of local architects.
Safeway never responded directly to the
proposal. Pamela Hopkins of Enact Global
Consulting, the facilitator for the stakeholder
process, said that Safeway was apparently
abandoning the stakeholder process and
would proceed on its own to convene a future
meeting to unveil its building plans.
This development puts the question of
a community response in the hands of the
stakeholder groups.
Options include having the community
architects submit their plans to Safeway for
Breaking News:
■
■
Red Oak Realty
Applies for Use Permit for
Dreyer’s Building Retail Space
At press time, it was learned that Red
Oak Realty has applied for a conditional
use permit to relocate its office from
Broadway and Pleasant Valley Road to the
corner ground-floor retail space (College
Avenue and Chabot Road) in the Dreyer’s
building. RCPC formally objected to such
a move, citing the importance of this
centrally located retail space and zoning
requirements favoring retail-only use in
street-level commercial locations. Visit the
RCPC Web site at http://rockridge.org for
developing news and possible community
meetings on this issue.
Land Use Meeting Agenda
Contact Stu Flashman at 652-5373 or stuflash@
aol.com for a copy of the current Land Use
Committee meeting agenda.

Zoning Workshops: Strategic Planning Division, City of Oakland – CEDA
Save the dates for the two upcoming community-wide zoning update workshops.
The same workshop will be held in two locations at two different dates:

FEBRUARY 26, 2009
OR
FEBRUARY 28, 2009

Thursday, 5:45 to 7:45 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am to 12 noon

West Oakland Public Library
Bella Vista Elementary

1801 Adeline St.
1025 E. 28th Street
Zoning update staff will be spreading the word about these workshops in the coming
weeks. More information: Zoning Update Message Line, 510/238-7299; or
www.oaklandnet.com/zoningupdate

Sales Tax
11
Total Expenses
11
Net Receipts
103
Locksley Gardens
No activity in 2008
BALANCE SHEET DATA
Assets
Cash Accounts
RCPC
17,449
FORL
20,329
FROG1
44,539
Whistlestop
442
Locksley Gardens
499
Other Assets
FROG: Balance of de la Fuente Funds2
26,607
RCPC CDs
35,978
FORL CDs
30,000
FROG CDs
10,023
Total Assets
185,865
Liabilities & Equity
RCPC: Commitment to Fourth Bore Coalition (FBC)
FROG:  Commitment to FBC
Equity
185,865
Total Liabilities & Equity
185,865
(1) A portion of these funds are restricted gifts towards specific items planned for
frogpark development.
(2) Includes remaining balance of the $100K pledge in 2006 by Councilmember
Ignacio de la Fuente for capital improvements of FROGPARK.
RCPC tax records are on file at
the Rockridge Library for public review.

$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 Avenue, Oakland
601-1188
Mon – Fri  7 – 7 • Sat  8 – 6
Across from Zachary’s Pizza
EXPERT
SHIRT
LAUNDERING!


4.

February 7, 2009

Letters to the Editor
wall and the west side parking lot and signs
to guide people unable to navigate a short
flight of steps to cross the street as the safe
path. Bicyclists are legally allowed to share
the road with vehicles, but should take extra
precautions during this construction.
■ Southbound traffic on College Avenue:
The contractor was able to move the cement
K-rail barrier back eight inches and to angle
it slightly towards the curb, to allow through-
traffic to pass around cars waiting to turn
left from College onto Keith. BART also
requested the City of Oakland to consider
adjusting the timing of the traffic light
at College and Keith/Shafter. To further
improve traffic flow, we also are removing
some orange post delineators on the south-
ern side of the construction area when the
contractor is not accessing the area near the
tile wall which commemorates the Oakland
Firestorm of 1991. The size of the fenced-in
area is necessary to accommodate the crane,
excavators, dump trucks, and drill rigs that
will all work to enlarge the columns’ foot-
ings and reinforce their ability to withstand
an earthquake.
The work on the west side of College
Avenue is anticipated to last until mid-April.
Work will then move to the east side of Col-
lege Avenue, where construction is scheduled
to last through June, 2009.
During the course of BART’s seismic
safety work, if additional concerns arise,
please feel free to contact me for an imme-
diate response.
Thank you once again for letting BART
know of this safety concern.
Bob Franklin
BART Director, District 3
E-mail: BobfranklinBART@aol.com
Cell:
510/684-0026
http://www.BobForBART.com
For urgent matters, please call
510/874-7425.
The Rockridge News welcomes letters to the editor. Your
name, address, phone number, e-mail address and city/
neighborhood must be included for verification. Only your
name will appear with your letter. Letters may be edited for
clarity and brevity.
BART Construction Disrupts College Avenue Traffic
The barriers reduce the width of the street
by two lanes and direct traffic flow into a very
short left-turn bay. When the bay fills – that
takes only four to five vehicles – south-bound
through-traffic on College is blocked.
Please speak with the project managers
to determine if the work really warrants
narrowing the street by two lanes, or if
the two lanes taken must be so close to
the left turn bay. If work requires taking
two lanes, please see if the area can be
shortened to provide more clearance for
through-traffic.
— Ray Perman
Editor:
Following is a copy of a letter I wrote
to the BART board of directors:
Dear Members of the Board, Dear Mr.
Franklin:
Thank you for your attention to seismic
safety at BART facilities. However, a serious
traffic flow problem has been created at the
Rockridge BART station by construction
barriers placed on the west side of College
Avenue which restrict southbound traffic.
This causes traffic to back up for several
blocks, and the placement of the barriers
seems unnecessary.
 Indifferent to the welter of
construction warning signs, a
pedestrian detours around safety
barriers and into College Avenue
traffic. Responding to concerns
raised in the letter above, BART
representatives, including Rockridge
area Director Bob Franklin, asked for
changes from the contractor and the
city to improve the traffic flow and
pedestrian safety around the barriers.
Franklin’s letter appears below.
Photo: Don Kinkead

Response from BART Director Bob Franklin, District 3 (Includes Rockridge)

Thank you for bringing these safety
concerns to BART’s attention. A traffic plan
had been previously approved by the City of
Oakland for this work, but upon receiving
this letter, BART immediately met with the
contractor to address these issues.
■ Pedestrian and bicyclist safety: “Do Not
Enter” signs and yellow tape have been added
to both sides of the construction area, to deter
pedestrians from walking unsafely around
the barriers alongside the traffic of College
Avenue. Additional orange post delineators
were also added as a warning sign. BART
also has ordered signs to guide pedestrians
to the narrow walking path between the tile
More Letters, page 5
¤
¤
Rick Prime    Financial Planning
How can you afford to live here and
send your children to college?
Obtain objective advice from your local
investment professional today!
COLLINS ROOFING
Family Owned & Operated
www.rickprime.com  (510) 384-1009
2936 Domingo Ave., #1, Berkeley, CA 94705
482-2227  Seamus
www.collinsroofing.com
Quality Work  •  Free Estimates
Lic # 695711
SecuritieS and inveStment adviSory ServiceS offered through
financial network inveStment corporation, member Sipc


5.
February 7, 2009

a
rk Corner
P
More Letters
Gfrom page 4
A monthly update on
what’s happening at the
best community-built
and maintained
park in Oakland
Changes on College Column
Overlooked My New Business
Editor:
I was sorry to see that when Theresa
Nelson mentioned the new businesses in
Rockridge in the January issue of The
Rockridge News, my new salon at 5431
College Avenue, between Diesel Books
and Bittersweet, was omitted. It’s called
“elizabeth H/the art of hair design.” I have
created an exciting, eco-friendly neighbor-
hood salon (I live just off College Avenue,
so it really is a neighborhood business for
me).
We had to completely renovate the site,
which was the King Lee laundromat, and
I think we’ve succeeded in establishing
a serene, inviting environment. My staff
and I are always happy to answer any
questions.
— Elizabeth Herzberg
FRO
A Great Day of Service at FROG Park
by Jennifer Cooper, FROG chair
Over 100 volunteers turned out for a very successful afternoon
of service cleaning up the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt
(FROG Park). Young and old joined together to sweep, collect
trash, weed, and spruce up our well-loved park. In just two hours,
we collected 14 bags of garbage and compostable matter.
The City’s budget cutbacks have impacted park maintenance
staffing; we need your help to keep our park looking good. Join
us for our family-oriented spring clean-up day to be held at
the park Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m.-noon, in conjunction with
Oakland’s Earth Day events. Mark your calendar now.
The next FROG meeting will be Wednesday, February 25,
from 7-9 p.m. at the Rockridge Library. Join us as we set our
agenda for 2009. We are looking for new Steering Committee
members. Projects to be completed this year include the public
art project and a new public restroom. Ongoing projects include
getting the faux creek to run year-round and
planning the extension of the greenbelt.
Contact Jennifer Cooper at jennifer@
live-work.com with any questions or to
offer your help.
Photos: Tom Dolan and Ronnie Spitzer
          More photos at http://www.frogpark.org/
FROG Day of Service, 2009
Rebecca Lueck, LCSW
Individual and
Family Counseling
(415) 235-1071
Located at College and Alcatraz
Treating relationship issues,
anxiety, depression, panic disorders,
childhood trauma, grief, infertility
and adoption, and addictions.
Sliding scale : Insurance accepted


6.

February 7, 2009

increases; Caltrans adamantly refused to go
any further. However, the highway construc-
tion agency did commit, reluctantly, to using
low-sulfur diesel for off-road construction
equipment. This will help reduce the proj-
ect’s effect on local air quality. Caltrans
also committed to keeping dirt-hauling
trucks off local streets and to work with
the community to minimize impacts from
dirt stockpiling at or near the site.
Caltrans also agreed to fund a barrier
along the highway’s edge above FROG Park
to protect the park from falling debris, and
agreed to consider expanding the park by
including unused Caltrans right-of-way
land. These agreements will not mitigate
the expected noise impacts on the park, but
provide some protection and compensation.
The agency also committed an additional
$100,000 for FROG Park or bicycle transit
improvements or to provide additional sup-
port for the SR 24 corridor study.
Last, but certainly not least, were several
commitments made, not by Caltrans, but
by Senator Steinberg and the Democratic
Legislative leadership, that promised up to $2
million for noise and air quality mitigation
efforts at Chabot Elementary and Claremont
Middle schools, as long as the school district
provided adequate documentation justifying
the expenditures.
Steinberg’s office also promised to
work with the East Bay Bicycle Coalition
(EBBC) and BART to identify State funds
for bicycle transit improvements along the
corridor. An unnamed legislator also appar-
ently agreed to carry a bill that could lead to
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) land
along Claremont Avenue being converted
to public recreational use once the current
building reaches the end of its useful life.
Neither the settlement itself nor the
process was what the FBC had hoped
for. Still, all in all, especially given the
unpleasant circumstances, the settlement
provides a small but significant offset to
the many impacts the Caldecott project
will have on the Oakland/Berkeley com-
munity. Perhaps the most unfortunate part
of the outcome is what it says about our
dysfunctional California political system,
and how it was so willing to sacrifice the
environment and our community to satisfy
special interests.
Got Kitchens?
by the global economic crisis.
If you or someone you know is put-
ting the finishing touches on a kitchen
remodel, or is already enjoying a new
kitchen, now is a great time to show it
off and celebrate the spirit of the neigh-
borhood in this longstanding community
fundraiser.
For more information, contact kitch-
entour@rockridge.org or call RCPC at
510/869-4200.
by Jennifer Edmister,
Kitchen Tour co-chair
R
CPC seeks renovated kitchens for
the 2009 Rockridge Kitchen Tour,
coming September 20. We are currently
visiting many
f a n t a s t i c
k i t c h e n s
throughout
Rockridge,
where the
h o u s i n g
m a r k e t
s e e m s
scarcely
impacted
Fourth Bore Suit
fourth bore.
Caltrans also committed to spend up
to $250,000 for a study of the entire SR
24 corridor, from I-580 to I-680. It will
consider potential transportation improve-
ments, including High Occupancy Vehicle
lanes (HOV) and/or toll lanes, BART and
other transit service improvements, current
and projected noise levels at the Rockridge
BART station platform, and reducing other
major impacts of the highway including
traffic, noise, and air pollution. However,
it provides no funds to implement the
study’s results.
Fourth Bore Coalition negotiators were
unable to prod Caltrans to do much more
to alleviate major construction impacts on
those living close to the project. Oakland,
in its settlement earlier of a threatened suit,
got Caltrans to restrict hauling operations to
daylight hours and to limit nighttime noise
from page 1
lawsuit (the judge had been expected to
issue a decision within weeks) and leave
the FBC with nothing to show for its years
of efforts.
At the suggestion of Senator Steinberg
and California League of Conservation
Voters President Tom Adams, FBC lead-
ers and legal counsel met with Caltrans to
hammer out a settlement.
The most significant result of the settle-
ment was Caltrans’ commitment to spend
$2 million for improvements to State Route
(SR) 13, the Ashby Avenue and Tunnel
Road corridor, including improvements
for some intersections and for pedestrian
and bicycle travel. These will help offset
traffic increases expected with the new
りきゅう
After 25 years of preparing
authentic Japanese cuisine
for exceptional restaurants
such as Kiku of Tokyo,
Mikaku San Francisco,
Kirala, and We Be Sushi,
Chef Tatsuya Koyake
decides to have his own
space to share his passion
for cooking. Come join
him for a taste of Japan.

INTERIOR-EXTERIOR LEAD
CERTIFIED PAINTERS
Professional preparation. Many local
references. All work Guaranteed
(510) 654-3339
Rikyu

Authentic Japanese Cuisine
ADDRESS 5335 College Avenue,

 Oakland, CA  94618
TEL 510 595 7388
JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Postscript: Nearly two weeks after the settlement
(as this newsletter goes to press), there is still no
budget resolution, and the Legislature is embroiled
in further attempts to roll back environmental, and
now, labor laws.


7.
February 7, 2009

The Bookstore —
A Neighborhood
Institution
I

has not yet been cracked.
Books on College
In the face of formidable competition,
independent booksellers have been
developing survival strategies. All of
them are aware that their best line
of defense is to woo local buyers by
emphasizing a distinct identity and a
style that reinforces their connection to
the community while offering the best
personal service they can, both on- and
off-line. They have also discovered that
when it comes to the book business,
small retail spaces are best. Perhaps to
counterbalance the vast universe of ideas,
we seek an unhurried, intimate, human
space to ponder our purchase.
Along College Avenue, the book-buying
experience has a laid-back, unfocused,
even capricious quality. People wander
down the street with their children,
perhaps popping in to Mrs. Dalloway’s
in Berkeley’s Elmwood District to search
for something age-appropriate in the
kids’ corner, lingering there awhile among
friendly staff and neighbors. At Diesel
Bookstore in Rockridge, a comfortable
lounge with fireplace welcomes the
lone browser or the local book club.
At Pendragon, the energy is different
yet again. The store is small and stuffed
to the gills with books new and used
and people looking for a good read or
greeting card. Open until late at night, it’s
a perfect place to complete an evening
out to dinner on College Avenue.
Fewer bookstores? I think we can use
more. Support our precious bookstores;
let them know they are a valued part
of our community.
The
Rockridge
 Muse
had a dream the other night. I was
browsing through one of my favorite
bookstores when I suddenly realized
that all the shelves were nearly empty
and that the book I held in my hand was
the last one I would buy there, ever. It
was only a dream, right?
Or was it? Consider the demise of
iconic institutions such as Berkeley-based
Cody’s Books and, soon, Stacey’s of San
Francisco. Even a megastore like Barnes
and Noble has closed the doors on its
Shattuck Avenue store in Berkeley. Except
for Moe’s Books and Shakespeare and Co.,
Telegraph Avenue is, from a booklover’s
point of view, frankly dead.
Smaller bookstores in almost every
Bay Area neighborhood are disappearing
like an endangered species. It seems likely
that even more bookstores will bite the
dust during this recession. Could such
a thing happen in Rockridge? I hope
not; I cannot imagine our community
without its bookstores. Their closing
would indeed be a sad day for all of us,
bookbuyers or not.
Rockridge Readers
I recently did a little survey of local
reading habits, and here is what I found:
First, we all love bookstores but,
while we do buy books, and quite a few
at that, we don’t necessarily buy them in
a bookstore. Best-sellers top the list of
titles sought, but more than one person
by Ortrun Niesar
I asked said they found it easier, cheaper
and often faster to buy online.
Book venues are changing, as well.
Gift shops have become pseudo-book
sellers by offering free fancy wrapping
and attractive displays of their wares.
Audio books are also popular; they
can be borrowed from the library and
returned. And then, there is Kindle,
Amazon’s digital book, with its updated
version on the way and other brands to
follow. It can hold 200 books, numerous
newspapers and blogs; a perfect tool
for BART commuters. The cost of a
Kindle is a hefty $329 or more, so
it’s not for everyone, but an almost
unlimited supply of books on demand
is appealing.
Still, there are also those of us who
take the physical book as a sacred
source of learning. We enjoy the ritual
hunt for a good edition by a beloved
author who does not happen to be on
a best-seller list. We savor it all: the
discovery, the conversation, the sight,
the touch and smell and the heft of a
newly printed book where the spine
Editor’s note: On February 19, at 7 p.m., Diesel
Bookstore, 5433 College Avenue, presents a
special screening of “Paperback Dreams,” a film
about the tribulations of two local booksellers.
See Community Calendar, page 15.
Rockridge
    Optometry
Your neighborhood
family eyecare providers
since 1947
Norman H. Burg, DDS
Dr. Donald Sarver
Dr. Larry Sarver
Dr. Scott Yokoi
Dr. Cindy Sakai
General Dentistry
(510) 652-1517
5700 Broadway, Oakland
5321 College Avenue, Oakland
510-655-3797  Rockopt@yahoo.com
Open11am - 8pm Everyday
A Prevention Oriented Practice
5418 College Ave. (510) 420-1928


8.

February 7, 2009

A Second Look

RCPC Election

from page 2
Fun-raiser: Claremont
Middle School Invites All
to a Silent Auction Night
Please join the Claremont PTA for an
evening of fun and fundraising. Our
Second Annual Silent Auction will take
place Saturday, February 21 from 6 p.m. - 11
p.m.+ at the Thelma Harris Gallery, 5940
College Avenue, Oakland.
Our theme this year is “$9.99 and some
CHANGE.” Ticket price is $9.99 per person.
CHANGE happens with the support of
our wonderful families and community
at large.
Delicious appetizers will be served as
well as a no-host bar. Can we continue to
serve our community through these fabulous
school events? YES WE CAN!
— Alice Chegia, Claremont PTA

from page 1
the RCPC. The organization represents
Rockridge and its residents before the City
of Oakland and other government agencies.
Board members are elected each April by a
vote of Rockridge residents. As usual, there
are six seats up for election. Board directors
serve for a two-year term (uncompensated)
and are expected to attend Board meetings
(usually once a month) and participate in
RCPC committees and other activities.
Interested? Send a short statement of
your interest, including contact information,
to RCPC Board Elections, 5245 College
Avenue, PMB 311, Oakland, CA 94618, or
e-mail chair@rockridge.org.
Statements of interest must be received no
later than 5 p.m. Friday, February 13. Ques-
tions? E-mail chair@rockridge.org or leave
a voicemail message at 510/869-4200.
The Pragmatic Realists:
5666 Telegraph
■
■
Developer/realtor Tom Anthony put on
hold plans to demolish the old veterinary
building and a cottage for a 5-story condo
project that would have loomed over the
neighboring apartment court and Clar’s
Auction Gallery. Instead, he’s rehabbing
and renting the existing buildings.
780 54th at MLK Jr. Way
■
■
Developers Cotter & Coyle proposed to
demolish the former Mutual Store/church to
build a 5-story condo project shadowing the
venerable Ace Ellis Hardware. Now, they’ve
refurbished the existing building as part of
a lease/option deal with another church.
Holding Pattern Developers:
4700 Telegraph
■
■
Apartments and ground floor businesses
remain, for the most part, rented out while
the property with its approval for a 5-story
condo project stays for sale. 4801 Shattuck and
the neighboring houses are all still occupied.
At the Kingfish “co-housing” project facing
Claremont Avenue, the Victorian cottages are
still rented out, but the bar is shuttered.
It’s better for all if properties
are maintained
In the short run, Hauser would be smart
(and the neighborhood better-served) to
put the Global Video building back into
rentable shape and generate some income,
providing onsite security if necessary to
stop the thieves and vandals now.
In the long term, as someone coming to
appreciate – if not yet love – mid-century
buildings, I can see this building fixed up
and retained for active use. It’s got a cousin
in Lincoln, Nebraska, a fine Philip Johnson-
designed University Art Museum.
G
R   E   A   L   T   O   R   S
The GRUBB Co.
A New Year
and a
NEW DAY
 to help
those in need.
Throughout 2009, I will donate 10% of
my net proceeds to the charity of your
choice whenever I represent you (or a
friend) in the purchase or sale of a home.
You pick the charity and I will promptly
send a check after the close of escrow. So
pass the news along and please send your
referrals my way.
Bob Brokl, an artist, is a founding member of
STAND, and takes a great interest in community
affairs.
Together, we can truly impact some
very worthy causes.
Julie Gardner
510.339.0400/245
jgardner@grubbco.com
JulieGardner.com
G
Rockridge:  5400 College Avenue
 Elmwood:  2930 College Avenue
Weekend Brunch in Elmwood

Me. I’ve been an Allstate Agent for 10
years. And riding bikes for 17. That means
I can talk all day about insurance features
and discounted rates, but I’d just as soon
talk about a new route you’ve found.
Let’s talk today.
Susan Bernosky, LUTCF
(510) 450 9050
5940 College Ave, #A
Oakland
susanbernosky@allstate.com
The Cupped Hands logo is a registered service mark of Allstate Insurance
Company. Life insurance and annuities issued by Allstate Life Insurance
Company, Northbrook, IL and Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE.
In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge,
NY.  Property-casualty insurance products issued  by Allstate Fire and
Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate
Insurance Company, Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company:
Northbrook, IL. © 2007 Allstate Insurance Company


9.
February 7, 2009

An early morning single-vehicle truck crash January 7 on Highway 24 near the
Rockridge BART station (inset) showered the parking lot below with truck
parts, concrete debris and a passenger, catapulted from the truck when it hit the
railing. Badly injured, the passenger was hospitalized but expected to recover.
This event emphasizes the need for the debris barrier at FROG Park
negotiated with Caltrans by Fourth Bore Coalition attorneys. Story, page 1.

5431 College Ave Oakland Ca 94618
510.652.5431
www.elizabethh.net
Eco-friendly salon
Experienced Stylists
Organic & Sustainable products

Peace of Mind
Bodywork
A touch therapy to relax
the fabric of your being.
Sharon Smith, CMT
6097 Claremont Ave., Oakland
www.peaceofmindbodywork.com
510-461-6431

New Date! – Feb 19
City Convenes a
Public Economic
Roundtable
Tuesday, February 19, 2009: 7 – 9 p.m.
Oakland City Hall, Council Chambers
The Economic roundtable discussion
has been rescheduled for Tuesday,
February 19. Topics include economic
challenges facing Oakland, the effects
of the bailout on urban comunities such
as Oakland, and what the economic
stimulus package can include to address
the needs of urban communities.
For more information, contact
Council President Jane Brunner at
510/238-7001 or jbrunner@oakland-
net.com.
Kimberly Lang
Draperies
Roman Shades
Cushions and Pillows
Fabric and Style Advice
510.540.6864        www.kimberlylang.com


10.

February 7, 2009

from page 1
Once you told me, long ago
to the prom
with me you’d go...
RCPC Town Hall
Complete architectural
services since 1970
resident’s concerns and to help set
the board’s priorities for the coming
year.
Join your friends and neighbors
Thursday, February 19, 7:30 p.m. at
the Rockridge Library, for an open
community forum. You can learn about
the accomplishments of RCPC in 2008
and share your ideas about the future
direction of the organization.
RCPC board members will pro-
vide updates on recent and current
projects and discuss commercial &
residential developments such as the
proposed Safeway rebuild, transporta-
tion projects, the BART retrofit, the
Caldecott Fourth Bore settlement,
and the new RCPC Website. Friends
of the Rockridge Library (FORL) and
FROG representatives will highlight
their achievements.
Previous such meetings have led to
fulfilled visions such as the Rockridge
Branch Library and FROG Park.
If you have not attended a Rockridge
community meeting before, this will be
a perfect opportunity to join friends
and neighbors to learn what is hap-
pening in your neighborhood and to
help the board set its goals for this
coming year.
5278 College Avenue
Oakland, CA  94618
(510) 654-6755   fax 654-3424
Princess Project seeks prom
dress donations
With prom season right around the
corner, one Bay Area non-profit is
hoping to help nearly 2,500 high school
girls attend this taffeta-filled rite of passage
by providing free prom dresses.
The Princess Project, a Bay Area non-
profit, is collecting new and nearly new
gowns and accessories. The organization
is depending on the generosity of women,
girls and companies throughout the East
Bay to help send local girls to prom this
year. The organization will host dress
“giveaway” events in March, where girls
can pick out that special dress of their
dreams, at no cost.
From February 8-14, readers can drop
off dresses or accessories at nearby Oakland
locations, including:
Crush – 5550 College Avenue
College Preparatory School’s
Cougar Café at 6100 Broadway
For a dress drop location near you, visit
www.princessproject.org. All donations
are tax deductible.
Rockridge
Located on Market Hall’s Lower Level
Entry on Shafter Avenue
510-655-8808
www.curvesrockridge.com
Free Parking!
Across from BART
Open 7 Days
Mon- Fri  6:00 -7:30
Sat & Sun 8:00 - Noon
Exceptional interior and
 exterior service.
Call for a free estimate.
 510.407.7749
Or visit us on the web at:
www.coastalwestpainting.com
a
cross-cultural congregation
striving to partner with
         the Rockridge community
   in lifestyle and service.
CA License #892264
G
Restoration / Renovation
Custom Wood
Windows and Doors
(510) 893 1157
College Avenue Presbyterian Church
5951 College Avenue, Oakland  510 658-3665
Sunday worShip 10:30 aM • ViSit: capcchurch.org
our wonderful coMMunity Meal, fridayS, 6-7pM
a great opportunity to SerVe
www.woodenwindow.com    Lic 640153
GRUBBCO.COM
SIMPLIFY!
Clutter Control
Paper/Filing Systems
Kitchens/Closets
Space Planning
Packing/Unpacking
Solutions for the critical mess
Non-Judgmental & Confidential
510.652.2133
3070 Claremont Avenue • Berkeley
510.339.0400
1960 Mountain Boulevard • Oakland
www.SummersOrganizing.com
Barbara ✔ 415-381-0707


11.
February 7, 2009

$100,000 funds release to begin technical
and engineering work is anticipated.
The Broadway Avenue repaving project
is included in Oakland’s five-year pavement
plan although not scheduled for 2009. If
Oakland does not have sufficient funds in
the future, it is possible settlement monies
could be used.
AC Transit BRT Study to
Revisit Alcatraz & Telegraph
Intersection
The RCPC hopes the BRT process will
undergo a transition from a completely
AC Transit-driven process to a collaboration
between the cities and the transit company.
That approach would benefit the Rockridge
community and lead to a better project.
AC Transit’s proposed BRT line along
Telegraph Avenue potentially provides a
swift, modern transportation mode. The
BRT Draft Environmental Impact Report
(DEIR) predicted a significant impact at
the Alcatraz/Telegraph intersection while
glossing over important implementation
details. The RCPC drafted a letter detailing
the neighborhood’s concerns; see it at: www.
rockridge.org. Concerns include:
Delays of over two minutes at the
■
■
Alcatraz/Telegraph intersection
Shortcutting through the neighbor-
■
■
hood caused by Telegraph median blockage
and congestion.
In preparation for the Final EIR, AC
Transit is currently working with Oakland,
Berkeley and San Leandro to refine the
project based on the comments received
from the cities and from the public.
Help establish Rockridge transportation
priorities for 2009. Oakland is working on
its transportation funding priorities for FY 2009-
10. The RCPC TPBS committee will submit a
comprehensive list of Rockridge problem bike/
ped/intersections to the City. Visit the RCPC Web
site: www.rockridge.org to view the full list and
send your input to Ronnie@rockridge.org
Transportation Projects
Head RCPC Traffic,
Pedestrian, and Bicycle
Safety Agenda
by Ronnnie Spitzer, TPBS chair
In wide-ranging remarks, guest speaker
Wlad Wlassowsky, Oakland Trans-
portation Services Manager, reported on
Rockridge-related transportation topics at
the January RCPC Traffic, Pedestrian, and
Bicycle Safety (TPBS) committee meeting,
held with the Fourth Bore Coalition (FBC)
meeting.
Wlassowsky’s topics included:
Oakland’s candidate Caldecott
■
■
Improvement Project (CIP) projects for
surface street improvements (intersection-,
pedestrian-, and bike-related)
AC Transit Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
■
■
impacts on the Alcatraz/Telegraph intersec-
tion, and
Fixing Ro
■
■
ckridge trouble-spots.
Caldecott Improvement Project
CIP Settlement Provisions
In November, the Oakland City Council
settled its potential lawsuit with Caltrans over
the Caldecott Improvement Project (Calde-
cott fourth bore). The $8.2 million package
includes items benefitting Rockridge:
Broadway/Lawton: New signal
■
■
Broadway/Keith intersection, Col-
■
■
lege/Keith; College/Miles; Telegraph on/
offramps: Signal upgrades
Install sidewalks along Broadway
■
■
between Golden Gate Avenue and Kay
Overcrossing
Noise and environmental monitoring
■
■
at Rockridge schools & park (no mitiga-
tion funds)
Sound study along corridor (first phase
■
■
in sonic reduction for Rockridge)
Soundwalls at locations, to be identi-
■
■
fied, through the ACCMA program.
Oakland’s first $4 million funding is
assured, the rest programmed into the
regional Metropolitan Transportation Com-
mission (MTC) budget. Once the Caldecott
Tunnel construction contract is awarded, a
Jeff Auen
REMAX ACCORD
Residential
■
■
Income Properties
■
■
REO Specialist
■
■
WWW.REO-SFBay.COM
WWW.JLAHOMES.COM
JeffAuen@comcast.net
800-805-8827
get bendy
3 classes for $30*
Kitchens
Beginning Yoga Workshop
Saturday, March 21
• Design
• Remodeling
• Showroom Sales
www.acornkitchens
andbaths.com
Also visit our store for the largest selection of
women’s yoga wear and yoga props in the East Bay
*new students only; valid for 30 days
Praying - Serving - Growing
St. Augustine
Roman Catholic
Church
400 Alcatraz Ave.
Oakland
(between Telegraph
and College
Avenues)
510-653-8631
Mass Schedule
 Saturday: 5 p.m.
 Sunday: 8 a.m.
  & 10:30 a.m.
 Weekdays: 8:30 a.m.
KITCHENS & BATHS
Reconciliation
 Saturday, 4 p.m.
510
547-6581
4640 TELEGRAPH AVE  •  OAKLAND
HOURS: T-F  10-5  •  SAT. 10-4
www.namasterockridge.com
5416 college avenue  510.547.YOGA
(near Rockridge library)
www.staugustineoakland.com


12.

February 7, 2009

$0.68 of every dollar spent in Rockridge
stays in Rockridge.
According to Wilson, Copland and
Jackson, Rockridge residents can expect to
see changes on College that RDA believes
will enhance the area’s drawing power. For
example, Chris Jackson wants to remove
parking meter poles and derelict meter heads
left over when the parking fee payment kiosks
were installed. The now unnecessary meters
are a visual blight that attracts graffiti, he
said, and they confuse drivers who think the
meters are out of order, make no payment,
and get ticketed. He wants attractive, sturdy
bicycle parking racks in their place.
RDA is also exploring ways to include the
College Avenue businesses north of Claremont
Avenue in events planned by the organization.
The intersection separating those businesses
from the rest of College Avenue is so busy
and complex that it has stymied previous
planning efforts, Wilson said.
Tiffany Copland noted the opportunity
to plan a new Rockridge event between
Thanksgiving and Christmas. Strong
attendance at the December tree lighting
the group sponsored is a testament to the
desire for an event in this time period, she
said. Tiffany is also redesigning the RDA
Web site to ensure it is a better resource for
those planning to shop in Rockridge. She
said RDA estimates that 50 percent of all
RCPC Meeting
“$0.68 of every dollar
spent in Rockridge stays
in Rockridge.”
from page 1
Organized in Oakland as a Business
Improvement District (BID), RDA serves as
the advisory board for the Rockridge area’s
business district. Wilson said assessments
paid by businesses and volunteer work by
business owners support many of the dis-
trict’s activities. Businesses pay between
about $50 and $3,000 per month, depending
on their sales. RDA collects about $150,000
annually, spending at least half of that on
security patrols in December alone. RDA
also employs a full time street cleaner, and
supports many Rockridge improvement
projects and events such as Out and About
in Rockridge.
Wilson said the RDA is considering re-
organizing as a Community Benefit District
(CBD), which could increase annual revenue
to about $300,000.
The RDA speakers reported mixed news
for local businesses in 2008: six stores
on College Avenue had their best holiday
season ever, while other stores failed to
inspire shoppers and will have an uphill
battle in 2009. If the economy doesn’t
improve quickly, Sara Wilson estimated
that 5 to 10 percent of all stores could close
in 2009. However, RDA intends to do all it
can to prevent store closures and to attract
new businesses. The speakers noted that
shopping is done by tourists and visitors
who live outside of Rockridge’s boundaries.
A stronger Web site could be a big help to
shoppers planning which Rockridge busi-
nesses to patronize, she said.
RDA also plans to maintain the atmo-
sphere of a successful shopping area, even
though some storefronts may be temporarily
vacant, by filling store windows with attrac-
tive and useful designs. This project can also
help storefront rental efforts by continuing
to present a vibrant atmosphere.
Other ideas or projects in progress
include remodeling the area under BART
to make it more appealing, hanging banners
on streetlight poles to invite people into
Rockridge and installing an information
kiosk at a central location.
Visit RDA’s Web site for further information about
the organization and its work with College Avenue
merchants: http://www.RockridgeDistrict.com/
Learn about Business Improvement Districts here:
http://newcityamerica.com/pbid.asp
Learn more about Community Benefit Districts at:
http://newcityamerica.com/whatiscbd.asp
Regency Antique Restoration
Professional and Experienced
ALL Furniture Repairs
In-Home Services
New finishes & waxing
FREE ESTIMATES
Pickup & Delivery
517-6280
Bruce Wagg
bruce@bayareaantiques.com
■
■
SAVE 30% or MORE
Off your Health Insurance!
For Online quotes, visit:
www.RockridgeHealthPlans.com
or, call 510.962.9575
■ Compare plans and rates from
the top carriers
■ Individual, family and group
plans
■
■
Henry C. Levy & Co.
YOUR FINANCIAL LIFE GOES BEYOND
STOCKS AND BONDS. SHOULDN’T YOUR
FINANCIAL STRATEGY DO THE SAME?
■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Certified Public Accountants
and Consultants
A Professional Corporation
■
• tax preparation • estate planning
• tax planning
• business valuation
5940 College Avenue, Suite C
Oakland, California 94618
510.652-1000   FAX 510.654-2363
HALLIE HART, CFP®, FINANCIAL ADVISOR
510-208-3823
MERRILL LYNCH
1111 BROADWAY, 22ND FLOOR
OAKLAND, CA 94607
CFP® is a certification mark owned by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
Total Merrill (design/words) is a registered service mark/service mark of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc.
© 2007 Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. Member, SIPC.


13.
February 7, 2009

Digital TV is Here and Rabbit Ears are Still Cool

by Bill Kaufner, RCPC boardmember
In 2005, Congress enacted the Digital
Television Transition and Public Safety
Act mandating analog television stations to
convert to digital transmissions on Febru-
ary 17, 2009.
There are three reasons for the conver-
sion:
1) The analog system is 50 years old.
Digital transmission will provide better
pictures and enhanced features
2) Recovered analog spectrum will be
made available for public safety services
the old ears including
picture frame antennas.
New rooftop antennas are
on the market and also
promise to bring in more
distant stations.
A good first place to
look is at http://www.
antennaweb.org. The
site gives buying advice,
directional placement
to best receive distant
stations, and lists of
receivable stations based
on the street address. With the converter
box and antennas, sets should receive about
34 channels sharply and clearly with no
ghosts or snow since television stations now
multi-cast in digital format. For example,
Channel 4 broadcasts on three channels
(4-1,4-2,4-3). Six or more PBS channels
(KQED, KCSM, KTEH) should be view-
able, as well. It won’t seem like receiving
television over the air.
such as police, fire, and
rescue squads.
3) Some recovered
spectrum will become
available to provide
consumers with more
advanced wireless ser-
vices (such as wireless
broadband). A good Web
site for information is
http://www.dtv.gov.
Digital signals for
current cable or satellite
subscribers will automat-
ically be sent to their television receivers.
Those who are not signal service sub-
scribers and do not want to buy a new TV
can still get great digital television reception
with a converter box and rabbit ears. Go to
http://www.dtv2009.gov to apply for up
to two $40 coupons to purchase converter
boxes. Most converter boxes cost $40-$60
and take about five minutes to set up. Elec-
tronics stores have stylish new versions of
Mon – Fri  9:30 – 6:00
Sat  9:30 – 5:00
CHIMES
PHARMACY
Serving Rockridge Since 1909
3210 College Avenue
Near Alcatraz
652-1990
Residential &
Commercial
Armed Patrol,
365 x 24 x 7
When hiring
a service
company,
make sure
that they are
the best at
what they do.
547-SAFE
(547-7233)
Feel like
a kid again...
Rockridge Sales Slow Drastically in January!

Closing Date	 BR/Bth	 Address
Orig Price	 DOM
LP
SP

1/22/2009
2/1
484 Florence Ave
$699,000
107
$649,000	 $583,000

1/21/2009
3/2
5766 Claremont Ave
$849,000
57
$819,000	 $800,000

• There is currently a 4.25 month supply of inventory in Rockridge.
• There has been a 50% decrease in sales in January of 2008
compared to January 2009.
• 100% of Rockridge sales so far this year have sold for below the
asking price.

Group Classes
Cardio & Weights
Personal Training
Child Care
4444 PIEDMONT AVE, OAKLAND (510) 655-8308
WWW.INSIDEOUTSIDEFITNESS.COM


14.

February 7, 2009

RockridgeResidents.Org
We’re a non-profit, no-ad based website
intended to increase the sense of community
between Rockridge Residents. Connect with
neighbors on the Online Forums. Read resident-
submitted articles, review local businesses. Visit
www.rockridgeresidents.org today!
Support for Separated &
Divorced Parents
Co-parenting counseling and mediation to sup-
port parenting effectively through separation,
divorce and beyond. Over 20 years experience
working with families in transition. Natalie
DaSilva, MFT. 510/823-7727.
Your Message Could Be Here
Your 36-word message is $22. (Phone number
counts as one word). Mail to: RN Classifieds,
5245 College Avenue, PMB 311, Oakland,
CA 94618. March deadline is February 19.
For information: RCPCBookkeeper@gmail.com
Jazz and Classical Piano Lessons
Jazz and classical piano lessons from Rockridge
jazz pianist with B.A. in music from U.C.
Berkeley, 15 years experience teaching and
performing. Reasonable rates, patient, dedi-
cated. All ages welcome. Janet 653-6783.
Your Own Home Food Garden
Beautiful, dynamic, fun, economic, eco-friendly,
fresh, organic, healthy delicious. Learn and connect
with nature. Installation, maintenance, consulting.
Passionate, experienced Oakland/Berkeley-based
farmers. Great references. Competitive rates.
650/303-4237 or eastbayfarmer@gmail.
Party Girl: Assistant and
Organizer for Your Parties
Enjoy your party while I do the work. Assist
with organizing, shop, food prep, bartend,
serve, or clean-up. Also personal organizing,
bookkeeping and tax prep. Sandra 655-5168.
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 510/761-7168.
Help with your PC or Mac
College student can help you in your home.
Affordable rates. Experienced & patient. Routine
scans/maintenance $35/hr. Internet applications
training, repairs & upgrades $25/hr. Call Tony,
510/653-1079. Rockridge only.
Quality Gardening
Skilled monthly or bimonthly maintenance,
aesthetic pruning, planning, design, irrigation,
consultations, ecological practices. 15 years of
horticultural experience in the East Bay. Local
references. Green’s Gardens, 510/593-3490.
V & V Trim & Flooring
Update your home with Crown Moulding and
baseboard. We specialize in finished carpentry,
wood, laminate, bamboo or tile floors. Ask
about our special offer. Licensed & Bonded.
510/366-5253.
A Portrait of Your Home
East Bay artist will paint a vivid, expressive
portrait of your home. A thoughtful gift.
Original artwork—not computer-generated.
You pay only if you approve the final artwork.
www.bourlandstudio.com; 510/748-9214.
Home Repairs
Carpentry, electrical, kitchen, bath, decks, fences,
drainage, tile, windows, walls, dry rot, termite
damage. Lic#458473. Don 510/812-0310.
Spiritual Journey
Join us on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje and the
shrine of Our Lady of Peace, International
Youth Festival (all ages), July-August, 2009.
Visit www.MyUITour.com or call 866/984-8687.
CST: 2070359-40.
Office Space for Rent
Professional office space for rent in unique
College Avenue Victorian building. 510/655-
7141; lmoll@sbcglobal.net.
Aesthetic Pruning
I specialize in pruning trees & shrubs under
20 feet tall. I work with trees to enhance
their natural beauty. Specialties: maples,
camellias, fruit trees, & focal points. Pruning
instructor Merritt College. Bruce Thompson
510/428-4964
Lake Tahoe Summer Rental
Two-bedroom, 2 bath, full kitchen condo for
rent weeks of July 10-17 and August 14-21. On
beach: pool, hot tub, kid’s playgrounds. Close
to shopping, casinos, parks. E-mail janebcal@
yahoo.com or 510/658-9530.
Skin Care Salon
Penelope’s Aesthetics, a serene garden setting
in Rockridge 12 years, specializes in professional
beauty needs. Facials, waxing, lash/brow tints,
skin tag/capillary removal, permanent make-
up, reflexology and more! 30% off w/ad. www.
penelopecalef.com 510/594-1552.
Custom Sewing for the
Home
Window Coverings: Curtains, Roman shades,
top treatments: Slipcovers; Pillows and Cush-
ions; Duvet covers, bed skirts, pillow shams &
bolsters; Special projects. Decorator fabrics &
drapery hardware. Holly. 510/531-1177.
Quality Building & Repair
Decks, slate, concrete, siding, fences, custom gates,
bathrooms, kitchens, expert retrofitting, carpen-
try, sheetrock, plumbing, electrical. Licensed,
bonded & insured. Ned 510/301-5448.
Unexpected Guest?
Short-term rental, lovely room 2 blocks from
Rockridge BART in owner’s flat. A steal. Photos
available. Wi-fi, cable, TV. Suitable for one person.
Photos available. Barbird@aol.com 510/652-7044.
Need Change in Your Home?
We offer affordable one-day redecorating ser-
vices that help you rethink your space and reuse
what you have in a new way. It’s the ultimate in
green interior design! www.woodhouseinteriors.
com Kim: 510/435-0712.
Cape Cod House Available
June-September
$1200-1800/week. Located in Truro, minutes
away from beaches and Provincetown. Three
bedroom, huge deck, wireless, cable, outdoor
shower and more. Ideal summer getaway for
Rockridge folks. Peter 653-0107.
Psychotherapy for Older
Women/Grandmothers
Brief or long-term therapy for women wanting
a better relationship with their adult children/
grandchildren. Older, 30 years experience,
interactive psychotherapist. Maggie Rochlin,
LCSW. 510/845-6556.
Feather River Art Camp
For adults (and kids), June 21-28, 2009. “A
perfect joyful blend of art, nature, creativity
and comradery.” Painting, writing, papermaking,
classical guitar, mosaics, bookmaking, glass-
beadmaking, gourd-craft, Ikebana, cartoneria.
Details: www.featherriverartcamp.com
Patios, Decks, Fences, Paint-
ing /Custom Artistic Tiling
I build outdoor amenities and have 20 years
experience with lots of Rockridge references.
www.Diegodesigns.com. Call Diego: 510/828-
9473. “We listen to your dreams.”
Single Again
Reconstructing lives after separation/divorce:
grief, money, custody, self-esteem, anger,
friendship, sex, hope, purpose. Support groups
in Rockridge area, weekly/evenings. Carla
Haimowitz, Ph.D. 510/655-7828. 30 years
experience leading groups.
Judith Glass & Sheila Sabine
Your Grubb Company Agents appre-
ciate Rockridge. If you are thinking
of selling your home contact us-Moving
changes your life-we make the process easy.
www.GlassSabine.com.
Rockridge
Private Patrol
547-SAFE
Decorative Painting
Faux finish, children’s murals, refinishing,
interior painting and color consultation. Call
Deco Art. 510/593-4574


15.
February 7, 2009

E-mail Rockridge News Community Calendar items to: joellis1@hotmail.com, phone 653-3210 (after
noon), 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.

Compiled by Jo Ellis

www.dieselbookstore.com.
An Evening with the Peace Corps
Meet a Peace Corps Recruiter to learn about oppor-
tunities in 76 countries in education, health, business,
environment and more. No upper age limit to join. Tues.,
2/24, 6 to 7:30pm, Rockridge Library, 5366 College Ave.
More info: Nick Bosustow, 452-8444, nbosustow@
peacecorps.gov, or www.peacecorps.gov.
Wisteria Ways Concert Series

Community Calendar

Roundtable Discussion
4th Saturday, (2/28), 1 to 5pm. Sponsored by the
California Writers Club, Berkeley branch (www.berke-
leywritersclub.org.) Info: 420-8775 or Writefox@
aol.com.
Knitting Cla
■
■
sses for Seniors (50+): instructor Teri
Barr. All levels welcome. Beginners bring light color
yarn and a pair of size 8 needles. If experienced, bring
projects to work on. Every Tuesday, 12:30-2:30pm,
upstairs meeting room.
Honoring Black History Month
■
■
: Presentation by
Regina Jackson, Executive Director, East Oakland
Youth Development Center (EOYDC) and recipient
of the Jefferson Award for Community Service.
February 21, 2009. 2:00pm-4:30pm. Co-sponsored
by the American Association of University Women,
Oakland-Piedmont Branch and the League of Women
Voters of Oakland.
Transformational Writing Workshop
■
■
: How to Use
Writing for Spiritual Growth and Transformation,
with Susanne West, Professor of Psychology at
JFK University. Saturday, 2/28, 2-4:30pm. Advance
registration recommended; call 597-5017.
Lawyers in the Library: Free legal advice. First
Tuesday each month from 6 to 8pm. Advance sign-up
starts 5pm. More info: 597-5017.
ART EXHIBITS
Gallery:	 Feb.: Julie Cohn Group Exhibition: Oil and
watercolor.

March: Darrell Hunger: Paintings, drawings
and photos of desert scenes.
Lobby Display Case:

Feb.: Leila Warhaftig: prints and handmade
paper sculpture.

March: Anne Prescott: Illustrations of
Chaucer’s House of Fame.
LIBRARY HOURS:
Mon. and Tues, 12:30 to 8pm.
Wed., Thurs. and Sat. 10am to 5:30pm.
Fri., 12 to 5:30pm. Closed Sundays.
Also closed: 2/12 & 2/16 for holidays & 2/13 for
City of Oakland Non-Emergency-Services Shutdown.
Diesel Readings and Events
“A Progressive Perspective on the Economic Crisis”
featuring Mayor Dellums, Council President Jane
Brunner, Assemblymember Swanson, Dr. Steven
Raphael from UCB School of Public Policy and others.
Topics include key economic issues facing Oakland
and the State. Thursday, 2/19, 7 to 9pm. Oakland City
Hall, City Council Chambers.Reserved seating, RSVP
238-7001 or ebuchen@oaklandnet.com. Additional
seating on a first-come basis.
Leftover Dreams: Patrice Haan and Tony Marcus
present the best of the classic songs of the Great
American Songbook: standards of the 1920s through
the ’50s. Saturday, 2/14, 8pm (house opens at 7:30pm).
$15-20 suggested donation for musicians (cash please at
the door).383 61st Street (inside venue, not wheelchair
accessible). For reservations (highly recommended),
RSVP to info@WisteriaWays.org or 655-2771.
Calif. College of the Arts (CCA)
ARTREAD: B
■
■
ookworks Exhibition: Students and
faculty in CCA’s Printmaking Program highlight the
book as an interdisciplinary, dynamic, expressive
medium. 2/9-16. Reception: Tues., 2/10, 5:30pm
to 7:30pm. Hrs: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., 8:30am to
4:40pm; Wed., 1 to 4:30pm; Sat., noon to 4pm. Info:
www.the-exquisite.com/artread.
PAST INFINITY: CCA Math and Science Fair
■
■
: Proj-
ects and demonstrations showcase the intersection
of art with math and science. 2/20-25. Reception:
Fri., 2/20, 7 to 10pm with Shawn Lani, artist and
Exploratorium exhibition designer. Mon., Tues., and
Fri., 8:30am to noon and 1 to 4:30pm; Wed., 1-4:30pm.
Info: 597-3709.
CCA Oakland campus, 5212 Broadway, Oliver Art Center.
www.cca.edu/.
Oakland Heritage Alliance (OHA)
Second Thursday Lecture Series
Historical geographer Gray Brechin discusses the WPA
and the Oakland Park system. 2/12, 7:30-9pm. Presented
monthly, OHA local preservation experts discuss archi-
tecture, history and cultural heritage. $8 (OHA members)
- $10. Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave. Info:
763-9218 or info@oaklandheritage.org.
Free Hands-On Bicycle Classes
N’hood Crime Prevention Council (NCPC)
Residents and business members of NCPC’s 12Y and
13X areas are invited to voice their concerns about
crime and public safety, 4th Thursday each month, 7to
8:30pm. Rockridge Library, upstairs meeting room,
5366 College Ave. info@rockridgencpc.com or
infofordenise@yahoo.com.
Rockridge Branch Library
5366 College Avenue, 597-5017
FOR CHILDREN:
Toddler Story Time: Every Saturday
■
■
, 10:30am.
New additional Baby and Toddler Story Time:
■
■
 1st and
3rd Wednesday, 10:30am, upstairs Community Room
(same days and times as pre-school Story Time).
Pre-School Story Time
■
■
: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays,
10:30am.
Pajama Story Time
■
■
: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 7pm (see
special event on 2/10).
SPECIAL EVENT FOR CHILDREN:
Celebrate Black History Month:
■
■
 (and in anticipation
of the City-wide “Big Read”) James Henry of Drummm!
presents a musical history of percussion in African
and African-American cultures. All ages welcome.
Tuesday, 2/10, 7pm.
FOR TEENS:
Rockridge Ninjas (Anime Club): Teens 13 and up
■
■
,
watch and talk about anime (Japanese animation) with
other teens. Second Tuesday each month (2/10), 5 to
6:30pm in upstairs meeting room.
Guitar Hero III Tournament
■
■
: Compete in a double
elimination tournament. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place will go
to the final at the Main Library. Must be 12-18 to enter.
Great prizes given! Saturday 3/7, 2-4:00pm.
Info: Susy, 597-5017.
FOR ADULTS:
Writers’ Support/Critique Group:
■
■
 ALL writers wel-
come. Bring 12 copies of up to 5 pages of your prose
for on-site reading/discussion. Note: this month only,
Learn to maintain your bike in excellent working condition.
Sundays, 2/8 and 2/22. The 2/8 class: flat repair. The 2/22
class: safety inspection; how to check wheels, derailleurs,
gears, etc. for wear and tear. Bring your bike and tools;
the REI bike technician will provide expert guidance.
No membership or registration required. REI, 1338
San Pablo Ave. (at Gilman), Berkeley, in the bike parking
area. More info: REI bike shop, 527-4140.
North Oakland Senior Center
All events are FREE and open to the public.
We
■
■
dnesday, 2/11, 7pm. Jonathon Keats: The Book
of the Unknown: Tales of the Thirty-six.
Sunday, 2/15, 3pm.
■
■
Suzanne Freed: Loving Richie.
Thursday, 2/19, 7pm.
■
■
Alex Beckstead presents a
special screening and discussion of his film Paper-
back Dreams, which follows the owners of Cody’s
Books and Kepler’s Books over 2 tumultuous yrs. in
the book business.
Sunday, 2/22, 3pm.
■
■
Charles Bock: Beautiful Chil-
dren.
Tuesday, 2/24, 7pm.
■
■
Debra Gwartney: Live Through
This.
Sunday, 3/1, 3/4, 1pm (note early time).
■
■
Dayiyal
Mueenuddin: In Other Rooms, Other Wonders.
Wednesday, 3/1, 7pm. Local Author
■
■
Christina Sunley
hosts a book launch party for The Tricking of Freya.
Thursday, 3/5, 7pm.
■
■
Daniel Pinchbeck: Toward 2012:
Perspectives on the Next Age.
DIESEL, A Bookstore, 5433 College Ave. Info
about other events, book discussion groups and El
Grupito, the Spanish discussion group: 653-9965 or
AARP Free tax assistance for seniors, Thursdays only,
Feb. 5 through Apr. 2. Make appt. at reception desk.
5714 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way.
American Red Cross
Vol
■
■
unteer Orientations: Learn how to: serve, inform
and thank blood donors; deliver blood; special projects.
Tues. 2/10 or Wed. 2/18, 6 to 8pm, 6230 Claremont
Avenue (across from College Ave. Safeway). Info or
to sign up: Anne at 594-5165 or BlackstoneA@
usa.redcross.org.
Donate blood:
■
■
 Mobile blood drive: Fri. 2/16, 8:30am
to 1:30pm. Children’s Hospital, 747 52nd St. in the
American Red Cross bus. Call 800-GIVE LIFE or go
to www.BeADonor.com (Code: CHO) to schedule
an appt.
6
%
Since 1986
realtyadvocates.com
(510) 428-0757


16.

February 7, 2009

Jan Fougner
OWNER – BROKER
BUYING OR SELLING IN
ROCKRIDGE? IF YOU
NEED THE SERVICES
OF A REALTOR, CALL
ME. I HAVE 31 YEARS
OF ROCKRIDGE SALES
EXPERIENCE AND THE
EXPERTISE YOU NEED.
6 5 5 - 2 3 3 0
ROCKRIDGE
R
E
A
L T
Yaboutface&body
dayspa      oaklandberkeley
serving you since 1981
Specialists in
Brazilian waxing
3190 college avenue
at alcatraz
berkeley, ca 94705
p 510.428.2600
www.aboutfaceandbody.net
sun-tues 10:30-5:30
wed-sat 10:30-8:00
KEVIN BROWN
Broker
654-8707 or 593-4780
PROVIDING

Professional,

Full Service

Real Estate Brokerage

To Rockridge Clients
 For Over 26 Years.
SPECIALIZING IN

WResidential Sales

WIncome Property

WCommercial

WProperty Management
29
Better Homes
Realty
5353 College Avenue
Oakland

Be a Part of the Change —
Support Your Neighborhood School
Join the Claremont PTA for an evening of fun at the Second Annual
Silent Auction, Thelma Harris Gallery, 5940 College Avenue, on
Saturday, February 21, from 6pm - 11pm. The theme is "$9.99 and
some CHANGE". Tickets are $9.99 each. CHANGE happens with
your support. Delicious appetizers and a no-host bar. For more
information: www.claremontms.org or call 510-350-6419.
Is there a move in your future?
Talk to me about featuring your home
For Sale in this ad space as well as other
creative marketing ideas
Terry Kulka 510/339-4789
terrykulka@att.net
http://www.terrykulka.com
With over 300 homes sold –
Experience Counts
WINSTON’S PLUMBING
ROBERTS ELECTRIC
HEATING & ELECTRICAL
RECO
COMMERCIAL
RESIDENTIAL
lic.# 537739/554406
Since 1979
• Trenchless Sewers
INSTALLATION  •  REPAIR  •  220 WIRING
• Earthquake Protection
NEW CONSTRUCTION  •  REMODEL
FREE ESTIMATES
• Tankless Water Heaters
2408 Webster St.  834-6161  Oakland
• Remodel & Repair
SERVING THE EAST BAY SINCE 1932            CA. LIC# 728215
510-652-8014
www.winstonsplumbing.com
“”May your toilet never runneth over!”
WHAT’S SO SPECIAL
ABOUT
ASHBY LUMBER?
For Sale In Rockridge…
5336 Locksley Avenue $955,000
3 Beds & 3 Baths w/ a Cottage
www.5336Locksley.com

5247 Locksley Avenue $799,000
3 Beds & 2 Baths w/ a full basement
www.5247Locksley.com
1,458
years of
Experience,
…as of today.
ASHBY LUMBER
HARDWARE & BUILDING SUPPLIES
Coming in February – Temescal
367 49th Street – Call for Pricing
3 Beds & 1 Bath – Completely Redone
www.367-49thStreet.com
824 ASHBY AVE    BERKELEY
(510) 843-4832  OPEN 7 DAYS
2295 ARNOLD INDUSTRIAL WAY
CONCORD  (925) 689-8999  Mon-Sat
Coming in February – N. Oakland
658 Fairview Street – Call for Pricing
4 Beds & 2 Baths - Completely Redone
www.658Fairview.com
Coming in February – Elmwood
3040 Benvenue Avenue – Call for Pricing
5 Beds & 2.5 Baths – Traditional w/ Flair
www.3040Benvenue.com
L A W T O N
Ron Kriss, Broker
Lawton Associates
510-547-5970 Ext. 55
ronkriss@jps.net
A S S O C I A T E S
“#1 in Rockridge Real Estate”
R E A L   E S T A T E
B R O K E R A G E