ONTHECOVER
We’re thrilled to feature Cathy Thielen as our October cover star, straight from the Senior Center’s festive Halloween celebration Cathy shared that it took her all these years to finally ‘make the cover,’ and we couldn’t agree more that it’s well deserved. She embodies the heart and joy of Rohnert Park.
The Friendly City SPOTLIGHT
JOINTHE COMMUNITYALTAR
The City of Rohnert Park is excited to invite you to contribute to our Community Altar, part of our annual Halloween Carnival and Dia de los Muertos Celebration!
Dia de los Muertos altars, or ofrendas, are a beautiful way to honor and remember loved ones who have passed. These vibrant displays feature photos, flowers, food, and personal mementos to celebrate their memory
You can be part of this special tradition by contributing items to the altar! We recommend displaying framed photos in an upright position.
Since the altar is open to the public, please avoid leaving valuable or irreplaceable items To ensure your belongings are returned, mark your initials on them and check in at the Community Center front desk when dropping off and picking up Please click here for more information and to sign up.
Questions? Please reach out to Silvia at scarreno@rpcity.org.
Drop off items Oct 20–24, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Community Center; the altar will be on display Oct 25, 12–5 p.m., with extended viewing Oct 27–30, 8 a m –7 p.m., and Oct 31–Nov 2, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
CITYOFROHNERTPARK HOLIDAYCLOSURE
SEPTEMBER21 WASNATIONAL GRATITUDEDAY
Across all eight City departments, our staff bring dedication, skill, and heart to their work. Whether it’s keeping our neighborhoods safe, maintaining our roads and parks, managing community programs, planning for the City’s future, or ensuring responsible use of resources every department plays an essential role in keeping Rohnert Park moving forward.
Much of this work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is visible everywhere you look: clean water, safe streets, thriving parks, responsive services, and a welcoming community. It all comes back to the commitment of City staff
We extend a heartfelt thank you to every member of the Friendly City team. Your work makes Rohnert Park a place we’re all proud to call home.
October 4 through 12, 2025 is California Water Professionals Appreciation Week!
Help us take a moment to thank our water professionals for the essential services they provide in our community.
One example of their work is the City’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project, now underway. This project will modernize more than 10,000 water meters citywide, moving from manual drive-by readings to a digital system that transmits usage data remotely. By introducing AMI, water professionals will be able to:
Detect leaks faster, conserving water and preventing damage. Improve billing accuracy with real-time data Provide residents and businesses with online tools to track water use. Increase efficiency and reduce vehicle trips, supporting sustainability goals.
The AMI project reflects the professionalism, expertise, and forwardthinking approach of our water staff. With a $5.5 million budget and an additional $1.5 million programmed for FY25/26, crews will replace older, high-use meters and retrofit newer ones, ensuring resources are used effectively.
As we celebrate Water Professionals Appreciation Week, we extend our thanks to the Rohnert Park Public Works Water Division for their skill, dedication, and service to the community.
TUNE IN TO CHANNEL 26 — ROHNERT PARK’S WINDOW INTO THE COMMUNITY!
Want to stay connected in a fresh, easy way? Channel 26 is your go-to spot for all things Rohnert Park — from City Council meetings and community updates to local events and current happenings. It’s your community hub on TV, bringing neighbors, news, and stories together. Don’t miss out — tune in to Channel 26 and stay in the loop!
CYBERSECURITY AWARENESSMONTH
Founded in 2004, Cybersecurity Awareness Month shines a light each October on the growing importance of protecting ourselves online. Every year, the threats get bigger: in 2025, the global cost of cybercrime is projected to reach $10 5 trillion, and the average U S data breach now costs nearly $4.9 million. That’s why it matters more than ever to take small, smart steps to stay safe.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is powered by collaboration businesses, government agencies, schools, associations, nonprofits, and community members all working together to make the internet safer for everyone. The City of Rohnert Park is proud to support this effort, led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
This year’s theme is “Secure Our World,” encouraging each of us to take four easy daily steps for online safety:
1.Recognize and report phishing –still one of the primary threat actions used by cybercriminals today
2.Understand the benefits of strong passwords and use of a password manager
3.Turn on multifactor authentication on personal devices and business networks
4.Install updates on a regular basis and turn on automated updates
For more information about Cybersecurity Awareness Month and how to participate, visit: https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurityawareness-month
CITYOFROHNERTPARKPUBLICWORKS DEPARTMENT:WHATISACAPITAL IMPROVEMENTPROGRAM(CIP)?
Every thriving community needs reliable roads, safe parks, modern facilities, and strong infrastructure to keep daily life running smoothly In Rohnert Park, these large-scale projects are planned and delivered through our Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
The CIP is essentially our roadmap for building and maintaining the city’s publicly funded infrastructure. It identifies which projects are needed, how they’ll be paid for, when they’ll be built, and how to prioritize them based on available funding So, what counts as a Capital Improvement Project? Think of the major investments that keep a city functioning:
Repaving streets and improving traffic signals
Constructing or renovating city buildings, parks, and pools
Expanding and upgrading water, wastewater, stormwater, and recycled water systems
Some of these projects can be completed in just a few months, while others—like large construction or utility upgrades—take years of careful planning and coordination.
Together, these efforts ensure that Rohnert Park continues to be a safe, welcoming, and well-prepared city for years to come.
DIDYOUKNOW?
Contractors can sign up to be on the City of Rohnert Park List of Qualified Contractors to receive bid notifications for public works projects on the City’s website at:
Informal Bidders List
Request Form
ALOOKAT CURRENTPROJECTS UNDERWAYIN ROHNERTPARK:
A&B Section Neighborhood
Pavement Maintenance
What’s happening:
Pavement repairs in the A & B neighborhood sections, including crack sealing, vegetation removal, dig-outs, slurry sealing, striping, and markings
What residents need to know:
Work hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Expect some delays
Trash pick-up stays the same day
Streets will only be fully closed for one day at a time
Schedule:
Asphalt repairs: Aug 25 – Sept 26
Crack sealing: Sept 15 – 26
Slurry sealing: Sept 22 – Oct 3
Striping: Oct 7 – 25
Completion: November 2025
TRAILTOCRANE CREEKREGIONALPARK
What’s happening:
Extending the Copeland Creek Trail from SSU to Crane Creek Regional Park Adding 1.42 miles of new trail, 3 new bridges, and a new traffic signal at Petaluma Hill Rd & Laurel Dr.
What residents need to know:
Expands outdoor recreation opportunities
Connects neighborhoods and parks Highlights Sonoma County’s natural, cultural, and historical resources
Completion: December 2025
KEISERAVENUE RECONSTRUCTION–PHASE3
What’s happening:
New traffic signal at Snyder Ln & Keiser Ave
Roadway widening, new utilities, sidewalks, bioretention areas, and landscaping
Completion: December 2025
NOTANE-BIKE: KNOWTHE DIFFERENCE
Class 3 E-Bike
Pedal-assisted Motor helps up to 28 MPH
Must have speedometer
Rider must be 16+
It might sound harmless to let your teen ride an “electric bike” to school but what if it’s actually an electric motorcycle? The law doesn’t treat them the same. Not e-bikes
Class 1 E-Bike
Pedal-assisted Motor helps up to 20 MPH
Throttle-controlled Motor propels up to 20 MPH without pedaling Class 2 E-Bike
Helmets required under 18
Electric Motorcycles
Require motorcycle license, registration, and insurance
Illegal to ride without meeting all requirements
Tip for parents: If you’re not sure whether a bike is truly an e-bike or actually a motorcycle, check before your teen rides it. The legal and safety consequences are serious.
HONORINGINDIGENOUSPEOPLES’DAY
At the September 23rd City Council meeting, Mayor Gerard Giudice proclaimed October 13, 2025, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Rohnert Park. The proclamation honors Indigenous peoples as the original stewards of the land and recognizes their knowledge, traditions, and resilience It also highlights their lasting contributions to the City’s cultural, educational, and environmental well-being.
Mayor Giudice encouraged residents to use the day to learn more about Indigenous histories, cultures, and traditions. He gave special appreciation to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria for their partnership and leadership
Melissa Elgin, Tribal Council Secretary of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Tribe. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Tribe and the City, honoring the past while working together for a more inclusive future.
This recognition reaffirms the City of Rohnert Park’s commitment to honoring Indigenous communities and celebrating their role in shaping the region’s history and progress
CELEBRATINGHISPANIC/LATINE HERITAGEMONTH
At the September 23rd City Council meeting, Mayor Gerard Giudice proclaimed September 15 through October 15, 2025, as Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month in Rohnert Park. The proclamation honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latine communities, whose traditions and resilience have enriched every aspect of civic life.
This year, the City also recognized Almas Libres, a program of the Raizes Collective made up of immigrant and Indigenous women who provide education, leadership development, and advocacy. Their work uplifts the voices of undocumented people, advances fair immigration policies, and builds community through projects such as Teatro Almas Libres.
The proclamation was presented to Almas Libres, and accepted by Renee Saucedo. In her remarks, she said that accepting the proclamation was an honor and spoke to the importance of recognizing the lived experiences, strength, and contributions of immigrant women in the community.
By recognizing Almas Libres and their leadership, the City of Rohnert Park celebrates the lasting impact of Hispanic and Latine heritage on the city’s culture, identity, and civic life.
The 2025 Cotati-Rohnert Park Housing and Resource Fair welcomed 127 community members on September 13 for a day of resources, connections, and great food Hosted by Rohnert Park, Cotati, and the Rohnert Park Cotati Regional Library, the event featured a popular First-Time Homebuyer Workshop with 39 attendees and dozens of local housing and support organizations Yucca Mami and Turtle Island Tacos rounded out the day with delicious eats.
Community Members had the Opportunity to:
Explore affordable housing programs and loan opportunities
Connect with local family services and counseling support
Learn about legal aid, energy-saving programs, and sustainability tips
Talk with organizations about homeownership, housing advocacy, and more
Participating Agencies Included:
Sonoma County Human Services Department
Sonoma County Energy & Sustainability Division
Sonoma County Housing Authority & CDC
Child Parent Institute & Family Resource Center
Legal Aid of Sonoma County
SHARE Sonoma County
Generation Housing
Housing Land Trust of the North Bay
Habitat for Humanity of Sonoma County
Redwood Credit Union
Sequence Mortgage
Housing is more than a roof over our heads. It is the foundation for health, stability, and opportunity. Rohnert Park knows how essential it is to ensure that residents have access to the information, tools, and resources they need to thrive This fair was designed to put those resources in one place, under one roof, for the benefit of the whole community.
A Day of Connection and Support
Throughout the day, community members explored information booths, attended workshops, and had one-on-one conversations with local experts. The First-Time Homebuyer Workshop was a highlight, drawing 39 participants eager to learn about the path to homeownership.
Looking Ahead
The success of the 2025 Housing and Resource Fair reflects what is possible when local governments, nonprofits, and financial institutions come together in service of the community. The Cities of Rohnert Park and Cotati, alongside the Rohnert Park Cotati Regional Library, are proud to have provided this opportunity and look forward to hosting future events that continue building stronger foundations for all.
CURTAINSUP: AMAGICAL SEASONAT SPRECKELS
The 2025–2026 Spreckels Theatre Company season is already underway, and audiences are loving it. This year’s lineup is a vibrant mix of bold new works, beloved classics, and family-friendly favorites that promise humor, heart, and unforgettable moments from misbehaving parrots to fractured fairy tales, holiday miracles, and the marvelous world of Dr Seuss
We opened the season with Featherbaby, David Templeton’s sharp and witty new play about a foul-mouthed Amazon parrot who upends the lives of everyone around him Directed by Skylar Evans, this dark comedy set the tone for a season that is both daring and deeply human.
Right now, Into the Woods is bringing fairy tales to life on the Spreckels stage. Directed by Sheri Lee Miller, Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Tony Award-winning masterpiece invites audiences to follow Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, and a childless Baker and his Wife as they chase their dreams only to discover that “happily ever after” isn’t always what it seems.
Filled with enchantment and spectacular music, this Tony Award-winning masterpiece is a rich, layered exploration of choices, consequences, and interconnected lives, directed by Sheri Lee Miller.
For the holiday season, audiences can delight in the tradition of, not one but, two returning theatrical events It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play by Joe Landry runs November 21–December 14, offering a nostalgic retelling of It’s A Wonderful Life as a 1940s radio broadcast with live foley sound effects. This heartwarming production is a reminder of the impact one life can have on an entire community.
Jenny Hollingworth directs this festive gem Running in tandem for one weekend only, December 12–14, All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 by Peter Rothstein recounts the extraordinary true story of World War I soldiers who laid down their arms on Christmas Eve. Featuring an all-male a cappella ensemble, this powerful production celebrates peace, humanity, and hope in the midst of war, directed by Sheri Lee Miller.
The soulful, country-rock musical Hands on a Hardbody kicks off the new year on the Spreckels mainstage, February 13th – March 1st, 2026. This quirky, highstakes musical, based on real events, follows ten Texans competing to keep one hand on a brand-new truck the last one standing wins. More than just a contest, this is a hilarious, heartfelt look at resilience, community and the dreams that drive us. With a moving score and unforgettable characters, Hands on a Hardbody is a ride you’ll want to take.
The season concludes with the beloved, family-friendly musical Seussical by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, running May 1–17, 2026. Join the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and all your favorite Dr. Seuss characters in this high-energy, heartfelt musical that brings these treasured stories to life! With toetapping songs, dazzling visuals, and a timeless story about friendship, courage, and believing in the impossible, this wholesome extravaganza is pure joy from start to finish, directed by Gene Abravaya
Spreckels Theatre Company continues the tradition of presenting high-quality, community-rooted theater that inspires and entertains
Enjoy significant savings by treating yourself to a season subscription! Tickets and subscriptions will be available now at spreckelsonline.com.
For more information, press materials, or interview requests, please contact Lauren Heney at lheney@rpcity.org.
The November California election is upon us! Are you ready? To register or preregister to vote in California simply visit registertovote.ca.gov.
If you moved, changed your name, or want to change your political party you can visit voterstatus.sos.ca.gov. You can also contact the Registrar of Voters office by phone at (707) 5656800 or by email at rov-voterreg@sonomacounty.org
For your convenience, paper voter registration forms are also available in our City Clerk's Office. You can also get the form at the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, most local libraries, and U.S. Post Offices. You don’t even need to pay postage!
Remember; it is important to register at least 15 days before an election If you miss that deadline, you will need to complete the same-day voter registration process. Through that process, you will request your ballot in person at your county elections office or polling location
If you live in Rohnert Park and want to learn about our local elections, please scan the QR code or visit RPCity/elections. You may also call us at (707) 5882227 or email us at cityclerk@rpcity.org
Remember, your vote is your voice, and your voice is important!
MORETHANA BUILDING:THE HEARTOF OURSENIOR COMMUNITY
There’s a reason the Rohnert Park Senior Center has earned 4.5 stars on Google reviews our community truly loves this place. But don’t just take my word for it Here’s what people are saying:
“Clean, friendly, and a great place to have a cup of tea, or a hot meal. They even have a cute little gift shop with tons of handmade items. What impressed me the most was the fact that they don’t turn anyone away.” – J.J.
“It’s a pretty cool place. There’s a lot going on different activities, classes, and so forth. Check it out.” – T.B.
“Wonderful gift shop. All handmade artisan quality ” – K N
“They are very compassionate toward the needs of elderly people.” – L.J.
These voices highlight what makes the Senior Center so special: it’s more than a building—it’s the heart of community for Rohnert Park’s older adults.
ACTIVITIESTHATBRING PEOPLETOGETHER
Every week, the Senior Center buzzes with energy. Residents enjoy line dancing, tai chi, Zumba Gold, knitting and crochet groups, storytelling, cinema club, and plenty of games like Kings in the Corner, Mahjong, and Bridge For those who like a slower start, the coffee bar and pastries are always a popular stop in the mornings.
The Senior Center also provides vital resources:
Community Dining: Hot lunches served Monday–Friday, noon–1 p.m. (reservations required)
Meals on Wheels and Frozen Meal
Pick-Up: For seniors who are homebound.
The Sunshine Bus: Affordable transportation for appointments, shopping, and errands.
Computer Lab: Weekdays, with volunteer help available for anyone needing tech support
Legal Aid and Counseling: Free elder law appointments, HICAP counseling, and case management services.
SHARE Sonoma County: A homesharing program helping seniors age in place.
ASECONDPLACETO CALLHOME
Whether you’re stopping by for coffee, joining a dance class, or asking for help in the computer lab, you’ll find a warm welcome at the Rohnert Park Senior Center. It’s a place where friendships are formed, resources are shared, and our community truly shines
6800 Hunter Drive, Rohnert Park 707-585-6780 https://rpcity.org/193/Senior-Center
GOT E-WASTE?
Zero Waste Sonoma partners with Conservation Corps North Bay to host free collection events for ewaste. Bring your e-waste and join us at the next event! Appointments are not required.
For more information, including what is, and is not accepted at the collection events, please click here.
DownloadtheReach RohnertParkApp!
Are you a GoRequest user?
Then it’s time to upgrade to Reach Rohnert Park!
Download it in your phone’s app store and let us know what we can fix.
You can also report issues directly on the City’s website: REPORT ISSUES HERE
If you need to report any non-emergency issue around the city, do so in our newest app: Reach Rohnert Park!
FLOODEDSTREETS
STREETLIGHT PROBLEMS ABANDONED CARTS GRAFFITI
KEEPPETSSAFE THISHALLOWEEN
Halloween is full of fun for us, but it can be a truly spooky night for our pets. With neighborhoods teeming with ghosts, witches, and superheroes, even the most easygoing animals can become frightened The safest plan is to keep your furry family members comfortably indoors.
AFEWQUICKTIPSTOKEEPINMIND:
Keep candy out of reach. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to pets, and sugary treats can cause upset stomachs. Be sure both your candy bowl and your kids’ trick-or-treat bags are safely stored. Watch the door. The steady stream of trick-or-treaters can stress even the friendliest pets—and give curious cats a chance to slip outside. Consider securing them in a back room until the night winds down Check IDs. Halloween is a good reminder to make sure your pets are wearing current ID tags and are microchipped. Did you know Rohnert Park Animal Services offers both services free for Rohnert Park and Cotati residents? Stop by during regular hours—no appointment needed
If a pet does manage to get loose, remember that the shelter is the first place to check and report them missing. Better to be safe than sorry!
ADOPT THESEPETS!
Discover a world of cuddly companions waiting to find their forever homes at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! Located at 301 J Rogers Lane off Redwood Drive, our doors are open from Wednesday to Sunday, 1:00 - 5:30 p.m.
To ensure you receive the best experience, we recommend giving us a call at (707) 5841582 to schedule your visit. Complete and submit an adoption questionnaire before arriving to streamline the process, ensuring more quality time with your potential new family member.
View all our charming animals and access the adoption questionnaire at rpanimalshelter.org. Your search for your new BFF (best furry friend) begins today!
MAX
Max is a 3.5-year-old Rottweiler mix with a big heart, a big body (83 lbs), and an even bigger personality! This handsome hunk came to us as a stray and now he’s on the hunt for a forever home Max is full of energy and would love an active home where he can run, play, and get plenty of attention. He gets along well with other dogs and enjoys the company of sturdy, confident people. However, cats are a bit too exciting for Max, so a feline-free home is best Give Max a jolly ball, or an empty dish to use as a hockey puck, and he can selfentertain for the whole afternoon!
He’s a sweet, eager boy who's ready to leave the shelter behind and start a new chapter with a loving family. Come meet Max and see if he’s the perfect fit for your home!
Frappuccino is an adult neutered male sable rabbit who came to us through a transfer from another shelter.
He has a striking white coat with beautiful dark markings on his face, similar to a Siamese cat, making him truly one of a kind.
With a calm and curious personality, Frappuccino is gentle, easy to handle, and full of quiet charm If you're looking for a unique and lovable companion, Frappuccino might be your perfect blend. Come meet him—he’s ready to hop into your heart!
LISETTE FRAPPUCCINO
a stunning blue point beauty! Lisette is a 2-year-old, blue point Siamese with a sweet, gentle personality.
She’s looking for a calm, patient home where she can feel safe and truly thrive. Lisette would do best with adults only, as she prefers a serene environment without the hustle and bustle of young children.
This elegant girl enjoys gentle affection and quiet companionship, and with the right home, she’ll blossom into a loving, devoted friend. Could Lisette be the sophisticated feline companion you’ve been waiting for?
ALIFETIMEOF LOVEISWAITING
Meet your match at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! Visit us in person Wednesday–Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM or browse available pets online at rpanimalshelter.org. Reach out anytime at (707) 584-1582 or animal@rpcity.org we can't wait to connect you with your new best friend.
SEEADOPTABLEPETS
INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?
The Animal Shelter is in need of volunteers for the following positions:
Front Office
Wednesdays 1:00 p m – 5:30 p m
Kennel Assistant Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you’re interested, please complete an application, here.
OPEN YOUR HEART AND SAVE A LIFE!
Become a foster parent for adorable kittens and puppies in need. Your love and care can transform their lives and yours too!
This summer, we've seen an overwhelming number of young animals arrive at the shelter that need extra attention. From bottle-feeding orphankittens to helping little ones learn to trust people, fostering gives them a chance to grow up in a safe, healthy, and loving environment. Be their hero and make a real difference for these babies!
No special skills are required and we provide all the supplies, food, medical care, and support needed. All you need to provide is a safe space (even just a bathroom), and the love that helps them thrive.
Make a difference today. Become a foster.
Learn more and apply: rpanimalshelter.org/get-involved/foster-program
PROTECT YOURPET!
Did you know that pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats in the City of Rohnert Park?
These licenses help keep our pets and community safe
To make this process easier, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new partnership with DocuPet!
You can now license or renew your pet's license:
Visit rpanimalshelter.org/licensing to learn more
WHYLEASHINGMATTERS INROHNERTPARK
City law requires all dogs to be leashed (max 6 ft) in public areas at all times. Help keep our community safe—always keep dogs leashed in public
Dogs in parks must be leashed unless you’re in a designated dog park. Thank you for helping protect our shared spaces!
LEARN MORE:
DID YOU KNOW?
Unrestrained animals can be impounded Always leash your dog and prevent trespassing onto private property.
COMMUNITY COURTESY STARTS WITH A LEASH
Leashes protect pets, people, and wildlife
Fines start at $100 and can go up to $500 3 violations in a year? That’s a misdemeanor.
LOCAL DOG PARKS
Rohnert Bark
Location: 5010 Roberts Lake Rd
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
Field of Friends
Location: 7471 Bernice Ave
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
RP Animal Services - Public Field
Location: 301 J Rogers Ln
Hours: Dawn to 8:00 am 10:30 am to 1:00 pm 6:30 pm to Dusk
Maurice Fredericks Dog Park
Location: 1600 Wisdom Ln
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
Best Friends Canine Club
Location: 1450 Golf Course Dr
Membership Inquiries: “Best Friends Canine Club of Golis Park” on Facebook
Looking for a private space? Check out SniffSpot.com for locally
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
The Rohnert Park Business Spotlight is your and the City’s chance to give a special “thank you” to all those unique, fun, and community businesses that make Rohnert Park a great place to live, work, and eat!
We love to take the time to visit with our local business owners, write a little about their business in The Friendly City Spotlight, and feature their business on the City’s social media platforms.
Want to be featured in the Rohnert Park Business Spotlight?
You can now schedule a time to chat directly with our Economic Development team!
Maybe you have a business milestone coming up, are new to the Rohnert Park business family, or maybe you want to let everyone know something unique about your business.
Whatever it is, we are looking forward to hearing from you!
STARTHERE!
Are you a small business starting up or expanding into Rohnert Park? Are you looking for assistance with your business plan, navigating permits, growing revenue, marketing, or understanding funding? If you are interested in starting or expanding into RP, you can receive in-person one-on-one services locally!
The City of Rohnert Park has partnered with Sonoma Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to provide you with local, in-person consulting services to help you grow your small business and find funding.
Whether your business is burgeoning or established, you can access these free advisory services and resources...all in-person. Services include:
Workshops and Training
Starting a business is a big decision. Keeping it profitable is a constant challenge. SBDC offers a wide range of workshops to help you understand best business practices for your success. Workshops are provided at no cost throughout the North Bay year-round.
One-on-One Advising
SBDC offers no-cost, confidential advising in the following areas:
• Planning
• Management
• Restaurants
• Cottage Business
• Manufacturing
• Procurement
• Capital
• Finance
• ecommerce
• Retail
• AgriBusiness
• Trademarks
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Resilience
• Technology
• International Trade
• Patents
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Fishy Business Makes a Splash
Fishy Business, a new local business, is making waves in Rohnert Park! The community has eagerly welcomed owners Melissa and Nick, who are dedicated to helping people find success in the aquarium hobby. Located at 5350 Commerce Blvd #F, this vibrant store is the perfect place to start a new hobby or find that special addition to your home aquarium.
A New Chapter for a Beloved Business
Fishy Business isn't a completely new face in Rohnert Park. The business is the successor to Under the Sea Aquatics, a beloved fish store that was forced to close in July 2024 after a fire in the strip mall. Melissa and Nick, who had purchased Under the Sea Aquatics in July 2023, didn’t let this setback sink their plans. They quickly found a new location and had their soft opening in April 2025, with a celebratory grand opening on September 6, 2025.
The story of how Melissa and Nick came to own a fish store is a true tale of passion. Nick received a large fish tank for his birthday and went to Under the Sea Aquatics to buy supplies. He left with a great idea and soon after, he and Melissa were the new owners! It's this kind of passion that you can feel the moment you walk through their doors.
Why
Fishy Business is more than just a place to buy fish. It’s a fullservice experience with a focus on education and quality.
Healthy Fish Guaranteed: One of the most notable features is their unique fresh and saltwater quarantine area. This ensures every fish is clean and healthy before it goes home with you, giving your aquarium the best possible start.
Live Coral and Rock: They sell live coral and live rock, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy saltwater ecosystem. These are more than just decorations; they're bustling with beneficial bacteria, algae, and invertebrates.
Full Aquarium Installation: See a setup you love? They offer a full aquarium installation service, making it easy to bring your dream tank to life.
A Focus on Efficiency: The new location is not only beautiful but also energy-efficient. By upgrading to more efficient filters, pumps, and heating elements, they've been able to significantly reduce their PG&E costs, making their operation more sustainable.
Family-Owned and Operated: At its heart, Fishy Business is a family-owned business driven by a genuine love for the hobby. Their goal is to be a welcoming place where everyone, from beginners to experienced aquarists, can find what they need and learn along the way.
Looking to the Future
Melissa and Nick are excited about their future in Rohnert Park. In the short term, they're focused on expanding their customer base and becoming a sustainable small business in the community. Long-term, they hope to partner with local schools and become a field trip destination where students can learn about freshwater and saltwater fish and aquatic animals.
Most importantly, they want Fishy Business to be a hub where people can discover and fall in love with the aquarium hobby. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, be sure to stop by and say hello. You might just leave with a new hobby!
THE ROHNERT PARK FOUNDATION
PRESENTS:
The Rohnert Park Foundation is proud to spotlight two incredible forces for good in our community: The Sitting Room, a venerable nonprofit dedicated to women in the arts, and Maya Khosla, an acclaimed biologist, filmmaker, and former Sonoma County Poet Laureate. Together, they are weaving a tapestry of creativity and connection through a unique program, "My World on a Page," reaching elementary students across the Cotati Rohnert Park Unified School District
The Sitting Room, a cornerstone of literary and artistic endeavor since its founding in 1981, has long been devoted to the collection and creation of interdisciplinary, international, and cross-genre literature, poetry, and art by and about women What began in Cotati has blossomed into a vital resource, fostering research, writing projects, and programs for students, interns, independent scholars, and common readers alike Their commitment extends through scholarships, internships, fiscal sponsorships, and publishing opportunities, nurturing the next generation of individuals interested in women in the arts The Sitting Room's collection of books quietly awaits curious minds, inviting visitors to simply come, sit down, and immerse themselves in a good book These books, as the organization often notes, are "crying out to be read " The Sitting Room also hosts engaging round table discussions where small groups gather to discuss poetry based on themes posted on their website These are not book groups, but rather free, open-toeveryone opportunities to simply show up and delve into the beauty of verse
At the heart of our current spotlight is the innovative collaboration between The Sitting Room and Maya Khosla. Maya, whose current passions intertwine filmmaking, forests, and nature, has been instrumental in bringing "My World on a Page" to elementary students This inspiring project exposes young minds to films, after which they are encouraged to determine what their "world on a page " is, drawing inspiration from nature It's a powerful way to connect environmental themes with artistic expression, allowing children to articulate their unique perspectives on the natural world around them
In January 2025, Maya Kholsa received a Small Grant through the Sitting Room to bring poetry-based presentations, lessons, and videos to Cotati-Rohnert Park Students
Poetry is part of an essential gesture, drawing from music, visual richness, and emotion
Transporting a world of ideas to words on the page is rediscovering that world. Starting with simple writing, like 3-line haiku poems or erasure poetry, can build power and grow into “My World on the Page --Maya Khosla
Maya's long-standing connection with The Sitting Room dates back over a decade to its Cotati days Her involvement deepened significantly when she served as the Poet Laureate for Sonoma County recognizing the profound impact and unique mission of the organization Her current work with My World on a Page extends The Sitting Room s legacy by engaging a new, younger demographic and demonstrating the enduring power of words and images
Even with such impactful work, both Maya Khosla and The Sitting Room face their unique challenges For Maya, a primary concern is ensuring equity in My World on a Page She is deeply committed to making sure that all students, regardless of background or circumstance, have an equal chance to participate and express their world on a page This requires thoughtful outreach and resources to bridge any potential gaps in access
The Sitting Room identifies its biggest challenge as encouraging people to unplug In an increasingly digital world, getting individuals to leave their phones in the car and immerse themselves in the quiet contemplation of books and poetry can be a hurdle Their call to action is simple yet profound: if you ' re in the area, come by and read a book at The Sitting Room Experience the tangible presence of literature and the tranquility it offers
Maya's call to action for the community is equally vital: she urges parents to drop into their kids' classrooms "Volunteer see what the kids are getting into," she implores "Being a part of their educational experience is just as important as being involved in every other part of their life" This simple act of presence can significantly impact a child's learning journey and foster a stronger connection between home and school
The Rohnert Park Foundation is honored to showcase The Sitting Room and Maya Khosla, two dedicated entities enriching our community through literature art, and a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation Their work reminds us of the profound impact that focused passion and community collaboration can have on individuals and the broader Rohnert Park landscape
#CONNECT
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Tuesday, October 14, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.
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Rohnert Park City Council Chambers
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
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