
Extracted text · highlighting “Monte McClain”
The
rockridge.org
VOL 41
VOL 41 • NO. 2
NO. 2 • ISSUE NO. 438
ISSUE NO. 438 • FEBRUARY 7, 2026
FEBRUARY 7, 2026
CIRCULATION:
CIRCULATION: 6,700 R
6,700 RESIDENCES
ESIDENCES; 200 B
; 200 BUSINESSES
USINESSES
Sponsored by the Rockridge Community Planning Council (RCPC) • 4900 Shattuck Ave., PO Box 22504, Oakland, 94609
“RO” illustration by Laura Serra
The Young Flare of the Wardrobe Project Flea Market
by Lydia Belusa-Niesen, 18 years old
Once a month, instead of cars
occupying the longest row of the
Rockridge BART parking lot, there are
hundreds of racks selling anything from
’60s style clothing to pink Labubus.
Homemade tags adorn every style of
clothing from JNCO jeans to hippie
flares, while vendors keep close watch
on their stalls, shouting out prices.
“It started with one row of stands
and now they have porta potties,”
said Nathan Gale, the manager at the
nearby RIC Bar and Arcade. “Even
my 23-year-old girlfriend feels old at
the vintage market.”
Flea Market, continued page 7
Marketgoers pick through the racks of one of 55 vendors who operate at the market. | photo by Liam Pierce
Reimagining the Vacant Triangular Lot at
Claremont & College
RCPC Election 2026
Elections for the Board of the Rockridge
Community Planning Council
by Casey Farmer | Laurie Williams,
Andrew Krulewitz and David Garcia
Statement: My park design, "Rockridge Commons," creates a ½-acre oasis along
the busy College/Claremont corridor for creatures of all ages and
backgrounds to rest and relax, gather and connect for community art and
music events, and to provide shade and greenery in a dense, high-traffic
neighborhood. The park celebrates the uniqueness of the Rockridge
neighborhood as a vibrant part of Oakland.
smooth
boulders
(typ)
Ask any Rockridge resident about
the vacant triangle-shaped lot at
College and Claremont and nearly all
will have a strong opinion about what
they hope it becomes. Through RCPC’s
Community Vision Plan process, we
heard countless frustrations about
how the site was “a dead spot” on the
Avenue, or that amidst a shortage of
housing or a dearth of open space, why
couldn’t this site be activated.
For background, this site consists of
two distinct legal parcels, owned by
two different property owners who live
in the Bay Area, and neither is current-
ly for sale. A Shell gas station formerly
operated at the site until 2013 and Shell
cleaned up the property to commercial
standards under the county’s over-
sight. Alameda County Department of
Environmental Health will require the
rain
garden
Scale 1” = 10’0”
0’
25’
50’ 75’ 100’
small shrubs
(typ)
building
*Preliminary; not for construction.
Statements of candidacy:
25’ conifer
tree
A
BLE in
container
(typ)
groundcover
(typ)
N
Prospective candidates must send
an email to Election@Rockridge.org
by Mar. 4, 2026 at 5pm.
40-45’
deciduous
tree
moveable
tables and
chairs
4 steps
w/railing
entry
sculpture
CorTen steel
“Sun Gate”
water
feature
warm-tint
concrete plaza
wood
stage
Claremont Avenue
45-50’
BLE (typ)
3 steps
w/railing
B
B1
GraniteCreteTM
Candidate and voter eligibility:
wood &
concrete
bench (typ)
concrete
seat-wall (typ)
grasses
(typ)
tall shrubs (typ)
strappy plants
(typ)
angular
boulder (typ)
20’ deciduous
flowering
tree
A1
30-35’ flowering
deciduous tree (typ)
30’ deciduous
tree (typ)
College Avenue
Anyone 18 years or older whose
principal residence is within RCPC
boundaries (see Rockridge.org)
Landscape designer Kat Gritt’s interpretation of how
the triangle could be used—one of many creative
people who see the site as an enticing blank slate.
When is the voting?
residual contamination to be cleaned
up or mitigated in compliance with
residential standards if it will be put
to residential use. The site is listed
on Oakland’s housing element as
a priority site.
The following are some creative
solutions from Rockridge residents
about what could go there:
Voting will be held on Thursday,
April 23, during RCPC’s Annual
Meeting and on Saturday, April 25.
Interested in serving your
neighborhood? Six seats are
up for election this April.
Triangle, continued page 8
● Rockridge News Turns 40, page 3 ● Pesticides at the Country Club, page 4 ● Valentine Tips, page 10
INSIDE:
February 2026
page 2
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
BEST OF
2025
2025
A R C H I T E C T U R E
amatoarchitecture.com
The
Logo Update
Thanks to all of you who provided
comments and designs for the Rock-
ridge logo. We received mixed feedback:
some did not want to see changes to the
craftsman logo and others would like to
see it evolve to include additional Rock-
ridge elements (e.g., retail, BART, urban
housing, our peacock!).
Given the impending release of the
Community Vision Plan, we’ve decided
to put changes to the logo on hold and
revisit the conversation in the future. ●
NCPC Meeting
Feb. 12, 7 p.m.
Join the bi-monthly meeting of the
Greater Rockridge Neighborhood
Crime Prevention Council, Thursday,
Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Rockridge
Library conference room. We hope to
have brief presentations by the Com-
munity Resource Officers, and discus-
sion of local crime and safety issues.
Our February speaker will be the
new Captain for OPD Area 2, Acting
Captain David Burke. To join on Zoom,
find the link at: rockridgencpc.com. ●
Buying? Selling?
Let me help you!
Anne D. Brandon
Realtor
510.682.6644 | 510.428.0900
Anne.Brandon@corcoranicon.com
AnneDBrandon.com
Lic# 01877719
© 2022 Corcoran Icon Properties. All rights reserved.
Each franchise is independently owned and operated.
Rockridge News
The
The Rockridge News was founded in March
1986 by Don Kinkead and is published monthly
(except August). It 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
Liam Pierce.........................Editor & Layout Artist
Susan Montauk...............Business & Distribution Mgr.
RCPC Board of Directors, 2026
Casey Farmer...............................................Chair
Star Lightner.........................................Vice Chair
Jana Good.............................................Secretary
Paul McDonnell......................................Treasurer
Mark Aaronson, Gary Barg, Kristen Belt,
Eli Kaplan, Tom Lollini, Robbie Tasker,
Zack Walton, Kim Suczynski-Smith.
Contact the board: chair@rockridge.org
For information: info@rockridge.org
Contacting The Rockidge News
Are there topics you’d like to see covered in
the Rockridge News? Have questions about
newsletter distribution? Want to volunteer to
be a Rockridge News distributor? We’d love to
hear from you.
Letters to the Editor
Letters are limited to 350 words and published
at the editor's discretion in the order received.
Send letters to: editor@rockridge.org. Please
include name, email and street of residence.
Deadline is the 11th of each month for the
upcoming newsletter.
All submissions accepted for publication are
subject to editing for clarity and brevity. The
Rockridge News reserves the right to refuse any
articles, letters or advertisements.
Newsletter Subscriptions
For a yearly subscription to the Rockridge
News, send your check for $22, payable to
RCPC with “Rockridge News” noted on the
memo line.
Mail payment to: RCPC, 4900 Shattuck Ave.,
PO Box 22504, Oakland, CA, 94609
ADVERTISING DEADLINE for MAR. 2026:
FEB. 19, 2026
Rates: $32/column inch ($28 for b/w)
6-month pre-pay discounts available.
For display ads and classifieds:
Email Susan Montauk: smontauk@gmail.com
Views expressed in published articles
do not necessarily reflect those of the
Rockridge News, its editor, or the board of
directors of RCPC. ●
February 2026
page 3
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
RNews
RNews
Tell a Tale to Toast
The Rockridge News Turning 40!
CORRECTIONS
●”SNAP Food Drive” (Jan. ’26)
One very generous donor was
inadvertently omitted:
Annette Floystrup donated $7,000 to
honor her father, putting totals at an
even more impressive $21,126.
We’d love to hear from you about your memories of the paper.
●"Haunted RIC" (Jan. ’26)
Sarah-Jean Bartky’s name was
misspelled once as “Sarah-Jane.”
The first issue of The Rockridge News was printed in March 1986 as a xerox copy.
Do you have a coffee group that
reads The Rockridge News togeth-
er? Have you been distributing it since
you were a kid? Have any articles stuck
with you over time?
What do you like most about it? Do
you know who delivers it to your door-
step? Has it ever helped you understand
the neighborhood in a new way? What
can it do that bigger papers can’t?
Have any particular articles caused
meaningful change in the neighbor-
hood and if so, how? If you had to de-
scribe The Rockridge News to someone
who just moved to the neighborhood,
what would you tell them?
Please write to editor@rockridge.org
about what the paper has meant to you
over the years and we might include it
in the next issue! ●
Become a Rockridge
News Distributor!
College Avenue is Calling You!
College Avenue is beckoning
a Rockridgian to distribute
The Rockridge News to businesses
and residences along the commer-
cial thoroughfare while enjoying
window shopping and chatting
with business owners along the
way (not required, of course).
Once a month a bundle of papers
will be delivered to your doorstep
and they are yours to pass out on
one segment of College Avenue
(see below) as soon as possible.
AVAILABLE ROUTE
CAv1:
Businesses/apartments along
College from Claremont to
BART. Stack at Zachary’s.
(50 papers)
welcome back
TO PRESCHOOL
To volunteer:
Call Susan at 510-547-3855 or
email smontauk@gmail.com if
you are interested and/or
need more info. ●
Register
your interest
today:
The JCC East Bay Preschool has a new home!
In Fall 2026, our award-winning preschool will
be located at the brand new East Bay Jewish
Community Campus in Rockridge.
February 2026
page 4
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
Neighbors and RCPC Call for Claremont Country Club to
Reduce Pesticide Use
by Casey Farmer, RCPC Chair and Morgan Molvig
successfully worked with golf courses
to adopt organic practices, proving that
protecting public health and main-
taining excellent course conditions are
entirely compatible goals.”
With guidance from Beyond Pesti-
cides and input from neighbors, the
group wrote and delivered a letter to the
Claremont’s management and board
explaining the concerns and requests
for changes to their use of pesticides. In
the letter, the group requested a meeting
to discuss the Claremont Country
Club’s turf-management program
and consideration of more organic or
reduced-chemical alternatives. They
also asked the club to post signs along
the perimeter fencing 72 hours before
and after pesticide applications to allow
neighbors to take simple, voluntary
precautions such as: keeping windows
closed or limiting outdoor play during
these times.
RCPC Chair Casey Farmer is a mom
of young children and resident on Carl-
ton Street, adjacent to the golf course
and brought the issue to the Rockridge
Community Planning Council (RCPC)
board, who voted to join the advocacy
effort and co-signed the letter.
The manager of the Claremont Coun-
try Club agreed to meet with RCPC
and the group of neighbors, though not
until Mar. 10. We will report back to the
community via the Rockridge News. ●
photo by Casey Farmer
Despite neighbors’ requests, the club did not provide advanced notice of this spraying.
Rockridge neighbors near the Cla-
remont Country Club are alarmed
about a recent neurological study that
found that people living within 6 miles
of a golf course face a significantly
higher risk of developing Parkinson’s
disease. So they’re taking action.
The study, published in the May 2025
edition of the Journal of American
Medical Association (JAMA), identified
airborne pesticide drift and contami-
nated dust—not just drinking water—as
likely exposure pathways for nearby
residents. Morgan Molvig, a mother of
a young toddler and resident of nearby
Belgrave Place, came across the article
and shared it with neighbors close to
the golf course—which include many
young families, several schools and day-
cares—to see if others were interested in
learning more.
“It’s jarring and concerning to realize
we’ve been living somewhere that’s po-
tentially exposing us to chemicals that
will make ourselves or our kiddo or our
dog sick,” Molvig said.
Molvig sent the study to neighbors—
including a nearby epidemiologist and
mother of two, Dr. Sarah Raifman—and
the response was immediate.
“When there is evidence of risk and
serious impacts on the community
and reasonable alternatives, we have a
responsibility to act,” Dr. Raifman said.
“Taking precautionary steps now can
reduce exposure and protect public
health, while the scientific community
continues to refine our understanding
of what constitutes a safe distance from
pesticide-treated golf courses.”
What started as a single inquiry
quickly grew into a small neighborhood
coalition focused on understanding
potential risks of pesticide exposure and
exploring constructive solutions.
Neighbors reviewed pesticide use
reports, which golf courses are required
to publish under California law. They
found that Claremont Country Club
routinely applies several chemicals that
public health agencies associate with
potential health risks, including:
Chlorothalonil, a fungicide clas-
sified by the EPA as a likely human
carcinogen and linked to kidney and
respiratory toxicity; 2,4-D and dicamba,
herbicides known to cause endocrine
disruption and developmental effects,
with documented cases of drift affecting
nearby vegetation and leading to human
exposure; and Triclopyr ester (Turflon),
a synthetic auxin herbicide associated
with reproductive and neurological
impacts in animal studies.
While these materials are legally
registered for turf management, health
agencies caution that repeated, low-lev-
el exposure—especially for pregnant
women and children—may contribute
cumulatively to negative health impacts.
Dr. Raifman connected the group
with Beyond Pesticides, a nonprofit
headquartered in Washington, D.C.that
works with allies to protect public
health and the environment from toxic
pesticides.
“The goal is not to chase a single ‘safe’
distance from pesticide treated turf, but
to systematically phase out hazardous
pesticides and synthetic fertilizers,” Rika
Gopinath, a policy manager for Beyond
Pesticides, said. “Communities have
February 2026
page 5
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
Backyard Brawl: Western Bluebirds vs. Eastern Fox Squirrels
by Collin Pine
I
’m just going to come out and say it: Rockridge’s
eastern fox squirrels are bad neighbors. These
introduced terrors tear up my raised beds, take
bites out of my tomatoes and uproot my potted
plants. Now, if a native western gray squirrel
showed up on my block, I’d be ecstatic, but un-
fortunately native squirrel sightings are few and
far between in Oakland. Instead, we’re left with
these poorly mannered east-coast transplants.
Or are we?
Last winter, my husband and I were excited
when a pair of western bluebirds showed up in
our yard. We’d hung a nest box on our fence post
the previous year, but unlike most of
the local real estate, it sat vacant for
longer than we would have wanted.
Come February 2025, the bluebirds
hadn’t yet made an offer, but they were
making a point to scare off other po-
tential buyers. We enticed them with
dried mealworms and they chased
away the chickadees, the titmice and
any other potential cavity nester.
Then, when the two finally decided
to make the leap and begin to build
their nest, something unexpectedly
fantastic happened: they turned on
the squirrels.
That’s right: from March through
June, these little heat-seeking missiles
cleared our lot of squirrels, giving our
annuals and seedlings a chance to
grow. Watching the bluebirds dive-
bomb squirrels became a highlight
of my days. We were sad to see the
smaller songbirds driven out of our
airspace, but the tradeoffs were more
than worth it. Not only were the
squirrels gone, but we got to witness
the persistence of bluebird parent-
hood firsthand: the incessant feeding,
regular bird baths, fecal sac removal
(Google it). It was a particularly
lovely spring.
In recent weeks, two bluebirds have
already started to visit our backyard,
and although we can’t be certain if it’s
the same pair as last year, their arrival
is a good reminder that now is the
time to hang up nesting boxes. Doing
so is easy: a quick search will tell you
which box to get and where to hang it.
illustration by Laura Serra
We’re crossing our fingers for more
baby bluebirds—and a temporary
respite from the squirrels—in 2026.
If you are too, lean into the BIMBY
(Bluebirds In My Backyard) mindset
and get a box up as soon as you can.●
GIANT USED BOOK SALE
AT THE COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Sat., Feb. 28, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun., Mar. 1, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm $8
TRULY SOMETHING
FOR EVERYONE!
Bargain Bag sale ALL DAY on Sunday
Thousands of books
(and some media and puzzles)
for all ages, at incredible
bargain prices
6100 Broadway, Oakland
Buttner Auditorium
FREE PARKING
bookfair@college-prep.org
February 2026
page 6
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
Love
ove Letters
etters to the
to the Rockridge
ockridge Community
ommunity
Sweet Justice for Blocked Driveways
Written and illustrated by Amina Tongun, Junior at Oakland Tech
MLK Day Cleanup
Block the
driveway, pay
the chocolate
fine!
Thanks to (left-to-right) organizer
Natalie Musick and volunteers
Julian Brown and Edward Karst for
weeding the spot on Monroe and Kales
avenues—along the golf course—that
neighbors planted some years back. ●
Instead of calling a tow truck,
one Rockridge resident has found
a sweeter solution to blocked
driveways: candy.
For the last eight years, Phillip Rubin
hasn’t called the police or a towing
company when a car blocks his drive-
way. Instead, he leaves a kind, slightly
mischievous note on the windshield,
directing the car’s owner to the See’s
Candies on College Avenue. The
message asks for a one-pound box of
chocolate, “Nuts & Chews” being his
preference, as a polite and less expen-
sive alternative to a towing fee.
“I did it originally sort of as a joke,”
Rubin said. “I didn’t think anyone
would actually bring us any candy—
but it worked almost immediately.”
The joke has transformed into a
small tradition, shaped more by co-
incidence and location than anything
unique about his driveway. Rubin esti-
mates he’s collected about 7 pounds of
chocolate, including one See’s delivery
that came with a bouquet of flowers.
At one point, a neighbor lent Rubin his
car while another blocked his drive-
way. When he returned hours later, he
and his wife were met with a box of
Sees and flowers waiting on his porch
from the apologetic driver.
Another time, Rubin left a note
on a woman’s car only to come back
later to find the note gone, but the
car unmoved. He considered calling
the police until the driver returned
with a box of candy. She apologized,
they hugged and she drove off from
his neighborhood that reportedly had
many free parking spaces at the time.
What began as a personal solution
has now grown into kind of a fad.
Other neighbors and friends in his
small community, known as “Chabot
Village,” have taken on writing similar
notes, turning a common neighbor-
hood frustration into a shared custom.
Rubin admits his first reaction to
driveway blockers was negative, but
has since made a complete 180. “I kind
of look forward to it,” he said. “Quite
often now, I’m excited to see somebody
blocking it.”
The story first took form as a letter
to the editor to The Rockridge News,
written about an anonymous “neigh-
bor” in the third person in hopes of
spreading the neighborly love, before
Rubin later admitted he was the sub-
ject himself.
For Rubin, the lesson is simple:
“Sometimes a curse is a blessing,” he
said. And if someone blocks the drive-
way tomorrow?
“We definitely prefer Nuts and
Chews,” he said. “No question
about that.” ●
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February 2026
page 7
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
Flea Market, continued from cover
(there are three flea markets that
happen every weekend in downtown
Oakland alone), “every vendor we’ve
picked is intentional,” said Talia,
adding that they make sure to pattern
out vendors for diversity. “A lot of what
we’re looking for is to really uplift the
Oakland community.”
The aisles between vendors are like
a catwalk caught in a time machine. A
woman in her early 20s looks like she
stepped out of Y2K, licking a lollipop
in her grey calf boots that come up
over her skinny black jeans. A millen-
nial man walks past her wearing Air
Jordans, dark blue baggy jeans and a
cardigan that might have belonged to
Mister Rogers at some point. There are
flashes of soccer jerseys—Brazil and
Argentina seem like favorites of mar-
ket-goers. Colorful ribbons, beautiful
barrets and handsome headbands add
extra flair to dyed hair and curls. Pos-
tures are up for the social-media con-
scious, ready for a snap at any moment.
About midway up the market,
Marian Bradley-Kohr, 62, was with her
mother, 90, and her daughter Camille,
25, who was trying on a pink leather
jacket that fit like a glove.
“My mom’s a master knitter; she’s
probably crocheted 1,000 hats,” Brad-
ley-Kohr said, noting how excited her
mother was to be amidst the textiles.
Bradley-Kohr took a moment to eye the
new addition to her daughter’s outfit. “It’s
very cool; I think you should have it.”
A vendor named Demo Salazar,
42—a musician from Detroit and a
veteran vendor who sold jackets from
the ’80s with new patches sewn on—
recounted that he had sold something
to someone who was 80 years old
and another thing to a 14-year-old,
all in the span of just a couple hours.
Immediately next to him was Shahla
Prouty, 26, for whom it was her first
time vending anything.
Brown and Prejean have witnessed
a “dramatically increased” demand to
expand the market size over the last
year and change, but came to the con-
clusion that it would lower the impact
of the market for each vendor. They
make sure they rotate at least 10% of
vendors each event to give everybody
a fair shot.
On the south side of the market,
people cheer and dance as someone
sings their heart out to Mariah Carey
on a microphone, while 100 yards over
on the north end, a man in a green hat
drives rhythms into a well-loved drum
set under the overpass—everything
between them is jam packed with ven-
dors. The smell of incense and carnitas
wafts from restaurants and food trucks
encamped nearby.
“This is the kinda central area that
fills the gap for a lot of people,” Brown
said, noting that Rockridge’s nature
as a transit hub helps attract a diverse
crowd. “It’s been really delightful.”
The market is evolving and
changing each time it unfolds under
the BART tracks. New to the market
in January was live music from “The
Booth” by Studio X, hosted by Tizzy
and sounds by Zuko Ali. As part of
the new music there was also an open
mic that over a dozen people rocked in
a diversity of genres.
The Wardrobe Project Flea will be
taking a break in February but will
continue again on Mar. 21. The market
operates rain or shine—taking ad-
vantage of Highway 24 and BART’s
shelter—always available to shoppers
of every vintage.
“It’s a really fun energy in this
neighborhood,” said Hannah Gilson, a
millennial vendor who’s been with the
market since day one and has worked
closely with Brown for many years. “A
12-year-old told me I was pretty and it
made my day.” ●
Every third Saturday of the month at
Rockridge BART, you might happen
upon one of the newest, trendiest
events in Oakland: the Wardrobe Proj-
ect Flea pop-up market. While there
is some generational diversity among
the crowd, its distinctly hip vibe is an
injection of youth in a neighborhood
not always known for it.
Since its founding just over a year
ago, the market’s program has grown
beyond the many stacked clothing
stalls, now including a variety of stands
filled with plants, art and even political
booths—mutual aid for Palestine, the
Oakland youth-oriented organiza-
tion People’s Programs and more. But
beyond its size and diverse offerings,
the market has developed its own
culture—shaped by small, self-made
operators and their clientele—one
that perfectly encapsulates the variety
of Oakland.
In November 2024, Talia Brown and
Jon Jon Prejean—a couple who met in
a thrift store and now own the small
brick-and-mortar shop “The Wardrobe
Project” on College Avenue—expand-
ed their offerings with “The Wardrobe
Project Flea,” a flea market that they
felt Rockridge needed. While Oakland
has no scarcity of events like this
Visit Us in Store on College Ave.
5709 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618
lesleyevers.com
Last summer I started wondering what could
be done, quickly, to prevent the vacant tri-
angle from remaining fallow. Ideally, it would
be something that benefits residents and local
businesses alike, incentivizes the landowner,
generates tax revenue for the city and strength-
ens our sense of community. As a young parent
with two energetic kids, the answer was
obvious: a family-friendly beer garden.
After getting some enthusiastic feedback
from friends and neighbors, I took the idea
to an RCPC Community Vision Plan session,
where I mentioned it to another Rockridge
resident who happened to know the landown-
ers. He told them about the idea and their
response was: “As long as you don’t pave the
lot, we’re open to proposals.” That was all that
I needed to begin exploring how it might be
possible to activate the site quickly for use
.o prior to long-term development.
First, the Alameda County Environmental
Health Department pointed me to similar
properties that had been repurposed, including
a pop-up beer garden in the Laurel that is also
located on an old gas station. With ACEHD’s
help, a comparative soil analysis showed that
our local lot is overall less impacted than the
Laurel site, alleviating a major concern.
Next, the City of Oakland planning depart-
ment kindly explained that even my temporary
shipping container taproom idea would incur
costly permits, so they suggested special event
permits as a more practical alternative.
City of Oakland special event permits allow
any one organization to schedule up to 10
three-day events in a year. A pop-up commu-
nity beer garden run from a tap truck—with
picnic tables, benches, planter boxes and kids’
play space—could operate every other week-
end from May through September.
page 8 [ triangle, continued from cover ]
THE BEER
GARDEN
by Andrew
Krulewitz
THE TOWN
TRIANGLE
by
Laurie
Williams
Our chance to create something wonder-
ful at Claremont and College may be
short-lived, so I’m hoping we take a moment
to explore creating a small but transforma-
tive Rockridge town triangle. A leafy space
adjacent to the busy intersection could
encourage serendipitous meetings
and community gatherings. It could also
host a small community center and food
kiosk. As we anticipate an inevitable increase
in density, preserving public open space can
help mitigate the harms and save the soul of
our neighborhood.
Currently, Rockridge has limited public
space. We have some sidewalk cafes, parklets
for restaurants, and the small plaza between
Safeway and Philz coffee, which is popular
but a little spartan and lacking in greenery.
We have Lake Temescal and Frog Park, which
is adjacent to and underneath the freeway.
We are a wealthy community that is, rela-
tively speaking, poor in public parks. Urban
ecologists suggest that with increased housing
density we also need increased green oases.
Maybe we can create this at the triangle?
Consider a small building at the rear of the
triangle property, near adjacent structures,
that could house a ground-level community
center and food-and-drinks kiosk, with most
of the property preserved as a public park.
Above the community center, one, two or
three stories of apartments could provide af-
fordable housing for Oakland teachers, who
could provide a watchful eye on the public
space. A building that covers approximately
3,000 of the available 17,400 square feet (less
than 20%) would still leave substantial room
for a green, relaxing park.
Imagine a pocket park, similar to those
in Brooklyn: fenced and closed at night, a
welcoming intersection of people by day.
Benches and chess tables, a small playground
and
raised
flower
beds (plus
perhaps some-
thing else you
suggest), are among
the possibilities that could
make this a place for neighbors
to chat and enjoy outdoor time
together.
The community center could host
a volunteer hub connecting us with oppor-
tunities to tutor teens, read to children and
elders, garden, paint and find other ways to
provide TLC to areas of Oakland in need
of helping hands. It could also be a place to
sing, make art, collaborate and help those
new to the neighborhood feel at home.
Money and ownership are the prima-
ry obstacles. Developers of the proposed
200-unit elder housing development at 6230
Claremont Ave., might get a waiver, but cur-
rently fail to meet the requirement for on-site
open space. Maybe this failure can create an
opportunity? Perhaps the developers could
choose to invest in acquiring and transform-
ing the triangle (currently privately owned
by others) to meet open-space requirements
and create a valuable neighborhood (and
marketing) asset. The developer has agreed
to consider this and saw potential for the
triangle to serve as a staging area during
construction. Current owners of the triangle
property could seek a stake in the new elder
housing in exchange for their property. I’m
hoping we can organize to gather the support
that could make this dream a reality.
Contact williams.zabel@gmail.com to be
invited to a meeting on next steps and a way
to help make the triangle a beautiful gather-
ing place for generations to come. ●
TRIGONOMETRY:
Three solutions to
the Claremont / Colleg
Triangle Conundrum
photo by Barbara Pajak
THE HOUSING NEED
layout by Liam Pierce
Da
Ga
Unfortunately, even with just the bare
minimum site improvements, the math doesn’t
work. But, if we’re upgrading the space anyway,
why not maximize its use for many different
types of events under the same special permit
structure, thus accelerating the payback of the
initial investment?
That’s where you come in: What else would
you want to see hosted at the corner of
College and Claremont? Summer movie
nights, makers markets and concerts are all
ideas that have already been suggested. The
plan is to form a non-profit (or partner with
an existing one) to lead site improvements and
manage the beer garden.This entity would act
as an anchor tenant and make the site available
to other community groups to sponsor their
own events.
Learn more, get involved and stay up to
date at: rockridgecommons.org. ●
News
Rockridge
page 9
The
February 2026
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photo by Henning Schlottmann
photo by Mike Peel
Y:
COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
The barren, vacant triangle can and
should be turned into new homes. While
the site is not without quirks and challenges,
it is more than large enough to support new
development. With some creative design and
ambition, the triangle could be transformed
into four to six story homes for professionals,
families and others who would contribute to
our community’s vitality. The ground floor
would become coveted retail frontage with
the potential for outdoor space vthat would
activate the long dormant corner.
The need for remediation and the site’s pe-
culiar shape should not be cause for concern.
Countless gas stations have been cleaned up
and reused for new homes throughout Cal-
ifornia, and the triangle shape could inspire
an architect to design a more aesthetically
interesting building with curved edges and
an interior courtyard. At 17,400 square feet,
the site has plenty of space for multifami-
ly buildings, many of which are routinely
built on just 10,000 square feet or less. The
location is the exact kind of place where we
should advocate for housing: along major bus
routes and walking distance to BART, which
minimizes the need for unnecessary and ex-
pensive parking (though some parking would
likely be provided onsite, underground).
Another reason the triangle should
become homes: leaders have paved the way
for residential development at this exact site.
The city lists the two parcels on the triangle
as “housing opportunity sites” in its housing
element. This designation is essentially the
city’s way of saying, “we really want these
parcels to become homes.”
New state laws would help make the project
financially feasible in exchange for including
affordable homes on site. A project here is
now also eligible for exemption from the
California Environmental Quality Act, which
would help get the project built faster and
at lower risk. But perhaps most important, I
believe the residents of Rockridge are ready to
welcome more neighbors through increased
housing. The lot is particularly well suited for
new neighbors in a taller building, given that
it would not abut any residential property.
Rockridge is one of the most affluent
communities in Oakland. Yet Rockridge has
only constructed 0.8% of its housing stock
between 2020 and 2024, compared to the rest
of the city, which saw a substantial increase
in home development during the same time
period—particularly around downtown. The
disparity between homebuilding here and
Oakland writ large is a cause for concern,
especially as Oakland has a goal of building
over 26,000 new homes by 2031.
Our neighborhood should be doing more
to take on our fair share of homebuilding,
not just because the city needs as much as
housing as it can get to meet its goals, but
because it’s the right thing to do to ensure
that people who can’t afford to buy a home
in our community have as many options as
possible to live here. ●
ENROLLING NOW!
ge
m
Scan the QR code for
upcoming informational events
or visit orindaacademy.org
NEED
BUTTRICK PROJECTS
ARCHITECTURE+DESIGN
by
avid
rcia
www.buttrickprojects.com
February 2026
page 10
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
YOU'RE
A-MAZE-ING!
The
“Hey, uh, Rockridge... *blushes*...
This Valentine’s Day, let College Ave-
nue be your cupid—your Cyrano de
Bergerac—as it sets the mood with cozy
boutiques, indie bookstores and
thoughtful gift shops. Rockridge has
something personal and unique for your
valentine; afterward, settle into one of
the neighborhood’s beloved cafes or
restaurants. Whether it’s handmade pasta,
intimate wine bars or decadent desserts—
share a meal that feels warm, unhurried
and genuinely connected to the community.
Supporting local businesses this Valen-
tine’s Day isn’t just about what you buy
or eat; it’s about showing love to your
sweetheart and your community at the
same time. Explore our gift guide to sam-
ple what Rockridge has to offer. For more
gifting and pampering inspiration, as well
as upcoming events, visit:
by Jody Colley
Rockridge District Association
Big Dipper Beeswax Candles
ROCKRIDGE DISTRICT.COM
Designed for moments worth
slowing down, each long-burning,
pure beeswax pillar brings a soft,
romantic glow to the room. Whether
styled as a dining table centerpiece
or flickering quietly in the living
room, these candles add warmth
and elegance.
Re-Up Refills, 6025 College Ave.
Blue Sapphire Heart Ring
Surprise your loved one with this beautiful
18 karat yellow royal gold ring designed
by Michael Endlich, featuring his signature
redwood bark texture. The heart-shaped
blue Sapphire is flanked by wings accented
with diamonds in a finger size 7.25. Resizing
within one ring size is complimentary with
purchase.
Pavé Fine Jewelry Design,
5496 College Ave.
Leonidas 9-piece Heart Valentine’s Tin
This red heart-shaped tin holds nine pieces of assorted
Leonidas Belgian Chocolates. Beautiful and delicious, and
tied with a lovely satin bow, this box makes a wonderful
Valentine’s Day gift for those who fancy a variety of milk and
dark chocolate delights.
Love + Chocolate, 6309 College Ave.
February 2026
page 11
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Will You Be My Valentine?”
Jellycat Heart Macaron
Jellycat never stops delighting, and the
Heart Macaron—created in honor of
Valentine’s Day—is no exception. Available
exclusively at Nathan&Co, in store only, $33.
Nathan&Co, 5636 College Ave.
Valentine
Garland
Sixteen playful
cupids soar
across this festive
garland, each
ready to stir up
a little romance
with a well-aimed
arrow. Screen printed by hand in rich,
cheerful tones, this piece brings a touch of
whimsy to Valentine’s Day celebrations. Sewn
along strong cotton thread, this garland is
long enough to hang across mantels,
windows or walls.
Maison d’Etre, 5640 College Ave.
L’aromatica Fragrances
Lovingly made by a Latina-owned and oper-
ated local artisan fragrance company, these
small-batch, non-gendered fragrances are
made with exquisite botanical ingredients and
aroma molecules—all vegan and cruelty-free.
Atomic Garden, 5453 College Ave.
The
Romantic Rockridge
Restaurant Recs
“We spent our honeymoon in Italy
and it’s nice to speak Italian with
the staff at Belotti. We love all
their pastas, the antipasto platter
and their tiramisu is amazing.”
— Christine Garofoli
“My favorite is À Côté for the
cozy atmosphere, menu meant for
sharing, great bar selection and
the pommes frîtes (best in the
East Bay).”
— Monte McClain
“People overlook how wonderful
a good brunch spot can be for a
date—you can eat well then have
the whole day ahead of you to
go out and enjoy. Kitchen Story
is perfect and gives all the vibes
plus delicious food. Whether or
not it’s a date or just a friend
hang, it’s is my go to. I love their
outdoor seating and their lemon
ricotta pancakes are a must.”
— Candi Martinez Carthen
“My husband and I will always
have a soft spot for À Côté. We
had our wedding reception dinner
on the back patio, so every time
we go, it reminds us of the day we
were married. It doesn’t get more
romantic than that.”
— Devan Meneses
COMING SOON
IN ROCKRIDGE!
5360 LOCKSLEY AVE
Cheerful 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom
bungalow with converted garage
with detached guest cottage! Large
sunny updated kitchen. Close to
everything – Walkscore® of 92!
AND COMING SOON IN
UPPER ROCKRIDGE
Glamorous contemporary
4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home
with rare 3-car garage and all
of the bells and whistles!
Contact me for more info...
MAXI LILLEY
510.919.8997
maxi@redoakrealty.com
The Rockridge Realtor®
with a Designer’s Eye
DRE#1919653
February 2026
page 12
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
Historic College Point Building Sheds its
Scaffolding to Reveal Modern Update
Bike Ride for a Reason:
Support Oakland &
Alameda Public Schools,
April 25
by Liam Pierce | College Point in the ‘30s next to a photo of current day
You might’ve walked by the scaf-
folding that, up until recently,
covered the Southeastern gateway
to College Avenue, and known that
underneath it were the businesses im
Moment Kaffee, Future Ink Tattoo,
Powerform, AdF Studios, Green Copy
and Rae Bar Aesthetics.
But you might not’ve known that the
building was built in the 1920s. Well
that’ll be even harder to decipher now
that the building has finally unveiled
the results of major exterior repairs and
upgrades to its facade, which includes
arched awnings that echo the original
architecture and a plaque at the College
and Broadway intersection identifying
all of the businesses it contains.
The triangular building, around
when it was built, used to welcome
people who were Orinda-bound, via
what was called the “Broadway Tun-
nel” at the time.
The College side of the building,
lower in elevation, was primarily used
as basements up until 1979, when new
owners decided to open them up as
their own businesses. The building also
used to house a path-breaking book-
store called “A Woman’s Place.” ●
GoldStar Beauty Lounge
Helping you look and feel your best
Hair Cut— $40 and up | men, women, kids
Nail Care— manicures, pedicures & more
Waxing— eyebrows, lips, chin & more
5332 College Ave., Oakland
(510) 428-4011
Hours: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m–7 p.m.
WALK-INS WELCOME!
Join the 18th Annual Ride for a Rea-
son! What began in 2009 with four
parents biking from Oakland Tech to
the State Capitol has grown into a com-
munity ride that has raised over
$2 million for East Bay public schools.
Funds support library books, sports
and science equipment, after-school
programs and critical staff such as
counselors, librarians and reading spe-
cialists—for schools where fundraising
opportunities are often limited. Ben-
eficiary schools include several Rock-
ridge-area schools, such as
Emerson Elementary, Oakland Tech
and Oakland International High.
Choose a fully supported 45-, 68- or
110-mile ride to Sacramento (shorter
rides begin with a bus/train from Oak-
land Tech). Enjoy a post-ride meal and
a powerful day of community impact. ●
Learn more, register or
volunteer at r4rschools.org
Questions? Contact Nora Vargas-
Dye at R4RSchools1@gmail.com
February 2026
page 13
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
BERT was found as a
stray in Madera, with an
injured leg due to a bullet
lodged in his elbow. Sadly,
he lost a leg in 2020, but
uses the good leftover
three to make his way on 3
mile journeys—usually to
procure treats from Cole
Hardware. If the store had
a doggy loyalty card, Bert
would certainly have all of
the holes paw-nched.
The
illustration by Laura Serra
ALDA and FEBE just
might greet you with a
‘ciao’ if they see you on
the street—they are, after
all, of the Cane da Pastore
Bergamasco famiglia, who
hail from the Italian Alps.
They often partake in
3-hour walks—from Manila
to Claremont—stopping to
accommodate all of their
fans along the way. They’re
paparazzi savvy like that.
Does your furry friend live in Rockridge?
If so, send a photo of your four-legged
companion and short commentary to:
editor@rockridge.org
A COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL
LIKE NO OTHER
Our intimate and open minded
community, promotes strong
voices, deep compassion, and the
skills and confidence to have a
powerful impact on the world.
hnhsoakland.org
One Gift Card
Redeem at
39+ Locations
Katy Winter, owner of Vita,
using her Rockridge Card
to shop at Re-Up Refill.
Get or Gift:
RockridgeDistrict.com
February 2026
page 14
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Appleberry
Appleberry
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PLUMBING
We go with the flow!
PROMPT EXPERT SERVICE
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The
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
Thank you for January’s excellent
article "Solving the Dangerous Inter-
section of College and Claremont”.
I cross that intersection several times
each week. I see parents with baby
strollers, shoppers with bags of grocer-
ies, Bart-bound travelers with luggage,
seniors with mobility issues, and other
vulnerable pedestrians who struggle to
cross the busy intersection safely.
A scramble would greatly increase
pedestrian safety. I usually cross on
my bicycle. However, if there were a
pedestrian scramble there, I’d happily
walk across instead.
Scrambles are hardly a novel exper-
iment. Closer than Tokyo's Shibuya
Crossing, I’ve seen pedestrian scram-
bles work well in Washington DC and
Toronto. I understand that there are
even some in San Francisco.
A scramble could be a benefit for
merchants as well. Studies have shown
that shoppers who arrive on foot spend
more per month than shoppers who
arrive in their cars.
To test out a scramble at College and
Claremont, we could employ meth-
ods from tactical urbanism such as
temporary restriping and signaling.
Let’s make Rockridge safer and more
welcoming!
Rachel Hollowgrass
Dana Street
Dear Editor,
I am writing regarding the new se-
nior living property proposed on Cla-
remont Ave., which follows California
laws to fit in an impressive 203 units.
I was born and raised in Rockridge.
Right after college, I moved back to
Oakland and lived in an apartment in
an older Chinatown building at a mar-
ket-rate price I could afford, a result, I
suspect, of the substantial amount of
newer housing built in that area. Even
in an older building I was a beneficiary
of newly built “luxury” apartments.
The simple fact is, I am worried
that my grandpa, who is 91 and lives
in a Richmond condo, and my par-
ents, who are in their 60s and live in
Rockridge, will not be able to live out
their last years in a place that fits their
needs. My grandpa already downsized
from a house, but a time will come
when he will need to sell his car and be
able to get groceries on foot and take
a short bus ride to the doctor. Living
near my parents would be a huge plus
for him. My parents will eventually
need to downsize, too, and would
not want to leave the neighborhood.
Oakland is sorely lacking in retiree-ap-
propriate housing in its walkable areas
and that makes me nervous.
Others, many associated with
the group Rockridge Neighbors for
Sensible Housing, may email you with
concerns about traffic, especially on
Florio St. The fact is, seniors drive
less than anyone except children and
benefit perhaps even more from living
within walking distance of shops and
amenities. My grandpa, for instance,
is not going to move into a dedicated
senior facility until he can no longer
safely drive anywhere. Bringing up
automobile access in the context of this
project amounts to a distraction.
This project is a step in the right
direction (though much more is need-
ed) and will help alleviate accelerating
costs of living that affect even well-off
Rockridge residents. I urge the RCPC
to support it in its current form.
5
6
202
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Wishing you a joyful and
prosperous New Year!
Cheers to new beginnings!
Ross Parish
DRE 02029039 | DRE 01881682 | DRE 00885925 | www.ClaudiaMillsRealEstateTeam.com
February 2026
page 15
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
Rockridge News
The
RN
RN
CLASSIFIEDS
CLASSIFIEDS
MODERN DOG TRAINING
Need help with leash manners, basic
obedience or problem behaviors? Private,
in-home training can help!
Visit dogsquaddogtraining.com or
call 510-646-9657 for more information.
Rockridge Library
List your 36-word message here for
only $24 (phone #'s count as one word).
Make check payable to RCPC, and write
“Rockridge News Classifieds” in the memo
line. Mail to:
RCPC, 4900 Shattuck Ave.,
P.O. Box 22504, Oakland, 94609-20131.
For Children (Red = February-only events)
Black History Month Craft w/ Ase Arts: Piece-by-Piece
- Celebrating African American Contemporary
Arts Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 4:30 p.m. for this
hands-on workshop introducing children ages 3 to 13
to influential artists.
Storytime: Thursdays and Saturdays; 10:30 a.m.
Chess Club: Wednesdays; 4 p.m. All ages &
skill-levels welcome.
Read to a Dog: Thursdays; 4 p.m. Practice reading
aloud with Gladys the dog.
Craft Programs: MoChA at the Library!
Thursday, Feb. 19, 3:30 p.m. Monthly art workshops for
children & families led by teachers from the Museum of
Children's Art. For ages 5 to15 & caregivers. Build cre-
ativity, social-emotional & academic skills through art.
Making Stories Club: Thursday, Feb. 5; 3:30 p.m.
Monthly workshop to write, illustrate & tell stories.
Make books, zines, stories, comics, kamishibai or
plays! Join youth writers & illustrators. For ages 8 to 12
ELECTRICAL REMODEL & REPAIRS
It’s Valentines Day! Shower some love on
your home. I can help with that.
I’ve been doing electrical work in Oakland
and Berkeley for over 35 years.
Sutorik & Company. sutorikandco.com.
Lic #397149. 510-655-3677.
For more information, email Susan at:
smontauk@gmail.com.
Deadline for MARCH News:
Feb. 19, 2026 (available Mar. 7.)
COMPUTER TECH SUPPORT
I’m offering friendly & affordable tech sup-
port for people who might need help with
(or gain a better understanding of) comput-
ers, phones, iPads, smart TVs, etc. Contact
Scott at Scott@Weitz.net for more info.
JEWELRY REPAIRS
Formerly of High Strung and Blue Door
Beads! Marilee is now doing repairs as an
independent contractor.
Please email her at mjywrepairs@proton.me
for all your jewelry repair needs.
VALENTINE ROSE
Penelope’s Aesthetics is offering a sea-
sonal Rose facial, neutralizing the effects
of emotional stress, while soothing and
hydrating delicate skin. Refresh and rejuve-
nate! A fabulous gift or for yourself too!
Call 510-594-1552 penelopecalef.com
HARDWOOD FLOORS
Install, sand/refinish, repair, re-coat exist-
ing. Large jobs or small. Twenty-plus years
in Piedmont Ave./Rockridge.
Bruce Williams Woodfloors; CA Lic #913727
Call or text 510-652-8121. blwfloors.com!
For Teens ages 12 – 18
Card Making: Wednesday, Feb. 11; 2-3 p.m.
All supplies provided. For teens only! Presented by the
Teen Advisory Board with support by the Friends of
the Rockridge Library.
Teen Advisory Board: Second Wednesdays, Feb. 11;
4-5 p.m. Join the Rockridge Branch Library Teen Ad-
visory Board (TAB) and take an active role in creating,
planning and implementing programs and services
you want to see at your local library.
BEPO LAROSE STUDIO
Rockridge-based documentary pho-
tographer capturing your most special
moments—family portraits, engagement
shoots, bridal & baby showers, & events.
Visit studio.bepolarose.com to connect.
GARDEN MAINTENANCE,
CLEANUPS & DESIGN
Experienced team of two dedicated to the
art of gardening. We specialize in garden
maintenance, cleanups and custom garden
designs. To contact us, please email:
yourgreengardeners@gmail.com
Check us out at yourgreengardeners.com
For Adults
Adult Crafting Series: Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.
– Sashiko Stitching. Back by popular demand! Carla
is coming back to teach us new techniques in this
popular form of mending and decorative stitching.
Drop ins welcome.
Meet the Author—Shonda Scott: Wednesday, Feb. 18,
6:30-7:45 p.m. Entrepreneur and civic leader, Shonda
Scott will discuss her book: “Give Me a Year 12 New
Things to Embrace Change and Live Your Best Life.”
Copies of the book will be sold on site by A Great
Good Place for Books. This event is sponsored by the
Friends of the Rockridge Library.
Ask Your Area Home Experts: Every 2nd Friday,
12:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. Get answers, tips and connections
from a Senior Loan Advisor and a Realtor, both Rock-
ridge locals. Have questions answered about home
ownership, maintenance, finance, investing, ADUs,
downsizing, moving and more.
Rockridge Book Club: Every 2nd Saturday, 3:30-4:30
p.m. Please call 510-597-5017 for more info and to
get a copy of the book. February’s book is "Wandering
Stars," by Tommy Orange.
Needlework Circle: every Thursday, 1-3 p.m. Bring
yarn and fiber arts projects to Rockridge Library. Build
community, share your passion, learn & have fun!
1-on-1 Technology Help: every Saturday, 10 a.m.-
12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m., Tuesdays 5:30-7:30 p.m. and
Wednesdays 5:30-7:30 p.m. Come with your devices
and technology questions and our volunteer tech guru
will help you get sorted. Signup recommended. ●
HANDYMAN FOR HIRE
Multifaceted and well experienced. Hauling
and towing available. No job too small.
Reasonably priced. Lee Self.
707-223-1298—call and text.
HANDYMAN & HOUSEHOLD
CARPENTRY
40 years of responsible, personalized
service. Repairs, custom projects, fine
interior plaster and painting. Free advice,
planning and consultation. Serving Rock-
ridge, Montclair, North Oakland, Berkeley,
Albany and Alameda. Len Lauro:
510-435-9586 lenlauro@yahoo.com
FREE PIANO
6-foot Baby Grand Steinway, recently
tuned. Call: 619-300-6268.●
RADAR RECORDING
Offers conscientious, patient, focused
music recording/production including full
programming of virtual instruments includ-
ing drums for rock, classical, orchestral
and ballad for singer song-writers, bands,
ensembles. Safe, clean, civil environment.
lenlauro@yahoo.com 510-435-9586
Rockridge Library Hours:
Holiday Closure: President’s Day, Feb. 16
Mon., Thurs., & Sat.: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Tues. & Weds.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Fri.: 12 noon to 5:30 p.m.
See calendar for events: oaklandlibrary.org/events
5366 College Ave., at Manila; 510-597-5017
Celebrating 59 Years of Excellence in
Real Estate Brokerage
For nearly six decades we’ve
earned the loyalty of countless
clients, helping them achieve the
American Dream of home and in-
vestment property ownership. Our
deep-rooted relationships within
the community built on trust, has
been pivotal in our journey. From
first-time home buyers and seller
representation, to seasoned inves-
tors, we’ve been privileged to be a
part of your journeys.
Kevin Brown, Broker
Better Homes Realty, Rockridge
510.593.4780 | dre# 00644175
Te GRUBB Co.
R E A L T O R S
est. 1967
Rockridge News
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The
DO YOU LIKE YOUR HYMNS
WITH A TOUCH OF
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the church for you.
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