September 8: News & Notes

In our topsy-turvy times, Rockridge continues to bring neighbors together—whether through political engagement, community activism, or celebrations of our shared history. Did you know we have a butterfly incubator and bike-powered tech support in the neighborhood? What can the history of Rockridge’s Craftsman cottages tell us about the neighborhood we know today? Want to further understand and respond to the impact of the new housing laws currently being imposed? Links to these stories and more are below, and at RockridgeVoice.com.

On Saturday, September 19, we join the community in celebrating two major milestones—Rockridge Library’s 30th Anniversary (11am to 2pm) and Frog Park’s 25th Anniversary (cleanup from 9am to noon, with a party afterwards)—all are invited! And, let’s not forget the Rockridge Kitchen Tour on September 27—Rockridge Community Planning Council’s major fundraiser. Visit our online Calendar for these and other Rockridge-focused events.

New this month: Rockridge Voice has added a Bulletin Board for those who want to reach our readership through a classified-ad format. We thank our ADVOCATES who helped us launch this new feature, and we encourage readers to check out all they have to offer.

Look for stories in our next edition when we welcome new eateries to the eclectic Rockridge food scene (Gamsa Sushi, Salt & Straw, and Uncle’s), and say a sad goodbye to some long-time favorites (UZEN, Wood Tavern, and Pucquio).

Have something to share? Have a story idea? We want to hear from you… we welcome the views and voices that continue to help define and shape our neighborhood.

With love and gratitude,
Anna L Marks, publisher/editor
editor@rockridgevoice.com

Today’s Feature Articles:

Thirty Years Ago, Rockridge Built a Library

by Annette Floystrup

Thirty years ago, hundreds of Rockridge neighbors came to together to build a library—contributing time, money and support—more than 4,000 showed up on opening day. READ MORE

Clean Up Frog Park… and Stay for its 25th Anniversary Celebration

by Theresa Nelson

In October 2001, more than 1,300 volunteers came together over 10 days for the “Big Build,” a remarkable neighborhood effort to transform the Temescal Creek greenbelt into a community playground. READ MORE

The Monarch Man of Boyd Avenue

by Carol Kasparek

What can you do to multiply monarch butterflies, enhance local flora, and learn more about your neighbors? Max Fancher has the answer: plant milkweed. READ MORE

Scott Weitz: The Two-Wheeler Tech Support Guy

by Judith Doner Berne

Scott Weitz is kind of a man for all seasons. Yes, this self-taught tech consultant has a variety of interests and causes. But it’s also because he rides a bike to clients —come wind or foul weather. READ MORE

The Craftsman Homes of Rockridge

by Molly Porter

If you live in Lower Rockridge (affectionately known as “Baja Rockridge” to those who live here) and your home was built between 1905 and 1930, chances are it’s a Craftsman home. READ MORE

Party with a Purpose: Rockridge Neighbors Raise Funds to “Flip the Vote”

by Nancy Morton

Everyone knows you need food, drinks, music and great people to throw a good party. Our neighbor Louise Music added one more essential ingredient on August 30: Purpose. READ MORE

More news, letters and opinions:

Bella Vita Celebrates 25 Years in Rockridge

When Jennifer Viale opened Bella Vita at 5511 College Avenue in August of 1999, she was ready for a change.

Rockridge VoiceAnna L. Marks

A Party 30 Years in the Making: Check It Out!

The Friends of the Rockridge Library (FORL) and branch staff are organizing a community celebration on Sept. 19, from 11am to 2pm. Featuring activities for all ages, the “Check It Out!” party will be held at the library in honor of the 30th anniversary of the location. The Rockridge Trio

Rockridge VoiceAlona Rivord

State Housing Law: What a Tangled Web

As readers of the Rockridge Voice may know, I and others have previously expressed our concerns about the two massive housing projects whose expected adverse impacts are of most immediate concern to the Rockridge community: * The proposed senior care facility at 6230 Claremont Ave * The proposed Twin (or Terrible) Towers

Rockridge VoiceJack Gerson

Built to Withstand the Quake—But What About the Residents?

This letter was sent to Oakland City District 1 Councilmember Zach Unger, Mayor Barbara Lee, Oakland Planning Commission members, and Rockridge Voice. To City Officials: As I’m sure you are already aware, the Trader Joe parcel is roughly one mile west (as the crow flies) from the primary trace

Rockridge VoiceMyrna Walton

Let’s Be Reasonable

Dear Editor: I am writing about 6230 Claremont Avenue, which is two blocks from my home. Let me be clear: I support this development. However, I am opposed to an eight-story building with more than 200 units that sits right up against my neighbors’ modest (for Bay Area costs)

Rockridge VoiceGuest Author

Eclectic Baja Rockridge: Like a Fine Vintage Wine

For the past ten years, I’ve been creating my city models in my front yard on Hudson Street almost every day. Working outside has given me the opportunity to meet countless neighbors and people walking by. Over the years, I’ve come to the conclusion that many Rockridge residents

Rockridge VoiceJames Rojas

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