ONTHECOVER
This month’s cover photo captures the ribbon cutting celebration for the new Charlie Brown and Linus statues at the Rohnert Park–Cotati Library. Councilmembers, City staff, and plenty of Peanuts fans joined together to welcome the statues as the latest addition to our community’s growing collection of public art.
The Friendly City SPOTLIGHT
HAVEYOUSEENTHENEWSTATUES?
Rohnert Park celebrated a joyful ribbon cutting at the Rohnert Park–Cotati Regional Library to unveil its newest neighbors: Charlie Brown and Linus. Councilmembers, City staff, and community members gathered for the event, joined by many Peanuts enthusiasts who were excited to see the beloved characters find a home in our city.
The statues add to Rohnert Park and Cotati’s growing reputation as the second largest destination for Peanuts figures outside of Santa Rosa. Beyond being a fun photo spot, they highlight our city’s connection to Sonoma County’s cultural history and the enduring legacy of Charles M. Schulz.
GETYOURNEWLIBRARYCARD
Get ’em while you can: our new library cards! Beginning September 1, the Library is offering special edition designs, including “Libraries Are for Everyone” and a card featuring beloved Peanuts characters. The launch coincides perfectly with National Library Card Sign-Up Month, an annual campaign by the American Library Association to promote library use and ensure everyone has access to this powerful resource.
We’re excited to share that RPCity.org just got a fresh new look! Designed to make it easier than ever to find what you need, the updated site features a dynamic homepage, quicker access to popular services, and a routinely updated news and events center.
Whether you’re paying a bill, applying for a permit, or staying up to date on community happenings, the new site is built to save you time.
This upgrade marks an important step forward in how we serve you online. We’re proud to provide you with easier, more intuitive access to City services and more opportunities to interact with your local government.
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!
Players collectively walked a staggering 1,307 miles and solved an impressive 746 clues! It was a true test of teamwork and a celebration of our vibrant local community. Participants visited some of our favorite spots, including Kotate Park, the iconic Lucy Statue at SSU, and Snoopy at SOMO Village
THE GREAT GAME RECAP
What a fantastic day for The Great Game! On August 23, 2025, the cities of Rohnert Park and Cotati, along with Sonoma State University, came together for the very first time to host this amazing community event. This groundbreaking collaboration aimed to bring residents and students together for a unique and memorable experience The excitement was palpable as almost 100 people participated in the augmented reality game, exploring local landmarks and businesses to solve clues.
The winners of the first-ever Great Game were:
1st Place: STREET CREW
2nd Place: GARDEN GIRLS
3rd Place: COTATI
BREAKFAST CLUB
4th Place: TOMBOY SISTERS
5th Place: LOVEPEACE
Players also had the chance to rediscover some of the best local businesses that make our area so special. They visited local gems like Sam's Mediterranean Deli, Mary's Pizza Shack, Fresh Fuji, and the Twins Restaurant, which provided an excellent opportunity for people to engage with and support the local economy while having fun.
The game wasn't just about winning; it was about connecting with our surroundings in a new and exciting way.
We're still going through all of your feedback, but it's clear from initial reactions that everyone had a blast getting out and about in the community The positive energy and enthusiasm were overwhelming, and we are so grateful to everyone who participated If you had a great time and want to see The Great Game return next year, let us know! For more information, you can contact Paul Carey, Senior Analyst, at pcarey@rpcity.org.
MEETCHARLES FOWLER, IRRIGATION
TECHNICIAN
Meet Charles Fowler, our dedicated Irrigation Technician for the City of Rohnert Park Parks Department. Charles carries the enormous responsibility of maintaining irrigation systems across the entire city’s parks.
From repairing main lines with mechanical couplers and gate valves to troubleshooting complex electrical issues, Charles works tirelessly to keep our parks green, healthy, and beautiful while also helping reduce runoff and conserve water.
We’re grateful for Charles’ hard work and expertise, and we thank him for the vital role he plays in keeping Rohnert Park’s outdoor spaces thriving for our community to enjoy.
KEISERAVENUE RECONSTRUCTION–PHASE3
Beginning June 23, construction started on Keiser Avenue near Snyder Lane as part of the City’s Keiser Avenue Reconstruction Project –Phase 3. The project will improve infrastructure and traffic safety in the area
Work includes replacing an old water main, storm drain improvements, new stormwater bioretention landscaping, new street lights, pedestrian ramps and sidewalks, asphalt paving, and updated traffic signals. Snyder Lane will also be widened to two lanes in each direction between just north of Keiser Avenue and Circulo Grande Drive
Temporary traffic controls and detours will be in place during construction. The project is expected to be completed by December 2025
Questions?
Contact Julian De Anda, Project Manager, at (707) 588-3317 or PWProjects@rpcity org
PARKBENCHATRAINBOWPARK
BEFORE
This bench, now placed at Rainbow Park, is one of those pieces. Crafted from the very trees that once stood tall in our parks, it serves as both a tribute and a gift back to the spaces where these trees once thrived.
We hope this bench brings comfort, rest, and reflection to all who pass by and that it stands as a reminder of the enduring connection between our natural spaces and the people who care for them
Here is a beautiful example of the meaningful work our Parks crew has done using reclaimed redwood slabs harvested from City property.
Due to the ongoing drought and other unfortunate conditions, we’ve had to remove several failing redwood trees over the years While it’s never easy to say goodbye to these majestic trees, the Parks Department saw an opportunity to preserve their legacy in a special way, by milling the wood and repurposing it into something the community can continue to enjoy.
AFTER
On August 15, the City of Rohnert Park joined the North Bay Black Chamber of Commerce to observe Black Business Month an annual celebration first established in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E Jordan Sr
Black-owned businesses are vital contributors to our economy, generating billions in sales and creating millions of jobs nationwide, yet they continue to face barriers, such as disproportionately high loan denial rates. Observances like this highlight both the progress made and the ongoing need for equity in access to capital and opportunity
Community members can support Black entrepreneurship by shopping locally, leaving positive reviews, attending events that feature Black entrepreneurs, and learning more about the history and challenges of Black business ownership.
Take Action
Explore and support Black-owned businesses in Sonoma County—from restaurants and salons to stylists and specialty services
The City of Rohnert Park remains committed to uplifting the diverse businesses that make our community thrive.
MAYOR’SPROCLAMATION: WOMEN’SEQUALITYDAY
On August 26, 2025, Mayor Gerard Giudice proclaimed Women’s Equality Day in the City of Rohnert Park The proclamation honors the anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing women the right to vote, and reaffirms the City’s commitment to equality and inclusion.
Mayor Giudice read the proclamation during the City Council meeting and presented it to Melanie Jones-Carter, Vice Chair of the Commission on the Status of Women, alongside Vice Mayor Emily Sanborn, Councilmembers Susan H. Adams, Jackie Elward, and Samantha Rodriguez, City Manager Marcela Piedra, City Attorney Michelle Kenyon, Finance Director Betsy Howze, Human Resources Director Jamie Cannon, Director of Development Services Ali Giudice, Director of Community Services Cindy Bagley, Director of Public Works Vanessa Garret, and City Clerk Sylvia Lopez Cuevas.
This recognition underscores the City’s ongoing support for women’s leadership and contributions within Rohnert Park and beyond.
Rohnert Park proudly supports National Service Dog Month. Mayor Gerard Giudice presented a proclamation to Quiara, a golden Labrador retriever cross, and her handler Claire Richardson of Paws for Purple Hearts – Southwest Regional. Their work trains service dogs to support Warriors with PTSD, TBI, and mobility challenges, changing lives for both humans and dogs.
MAYOR’SPROCLAMATION: NATIONALSERVICEDOGMONTH
At the August 26 City Council meeting, Mayor Gerard Giudice proclaimed September as National Service Dog Month in the City of Rohnert Park
This year’s proclamation was presented to Quiara, a Golden Labrador Retriever Cross, and her handler, Claire Richardson, of Paws for Purple Hearts – Southwest Regional. The organization provides canine-assisted therapy to Warriors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) in partnership with the VA Palo Alto Healthcare System.
Warriors play a central role in training service dogs, which go on to assist fellow Warriors with mobility challenges, PTSD, and TBI Dogs begin socialization as young as two weeks old, spending time both in structured training programs and with Puppy Parents on weekends. At the Southwest Regional site, the dogs live alongside Warriors in residential treatment, creating a unique bond that benefits both the dogs and their trainers.
The City of Rohnert Park is proud to recognize the life-changing impact of service dogs and the dedicated individuals and volunteers who support their training and mission.
SPRECKELS THEATRE COMPANY ANNOUNCESA BOLDAND INVENTIVENEW 25/26SEASON
Spreckels Theatre Company is thrilled to announce its upcoming 2025–2026 season, a vibrant blend of bold new works, beloved classics, and familyfriendly favorites. This compelling lineup takes audiences on a journey filled with humor, heart, and human connection, featuring misbehaving parrots, fractured fairy tales, holiday miracles, hard-won rides and the marvelous world of Dr. Seuss.
The season opens with Featherbaby, a new play by David Templeton, running August 29–September 14, 2025.
This dark comedy invites audiences into the world of Featherbaby, a territorial, foul-mouthed Amazon parrot, whose life is upended when Angie, a crime-scene photographer with a twisted sense of humor, begins dating Mason, a competitive jigsaw puzzler. What begins as a turf war turns into something far more unexpected in this sharp, witty, and emotionally resonant play, directed by Skylar Evans.
Next, from September 26–October 12, Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Into the Woods takes the stage. Fairy tales collide in this spellbinding musical journey where wishes come true—but at a price
Follow Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, and a childless Baker and his Wife as they venture into the woods to chase their dreams, only to discover that happily ever after isn’t always what it seems. Filled with enchantment and spectacular music, this Tony Awardwinning 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.
GOT E-WASTE?
Zero Waste Sonoma partners with Conservation Corps
North Bay to host free collection events for e-waste. 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. FRIDAY,SEPTEMBER12SUNDAYSEPTEMBER14,2025
9:00A.M.TO5:00P.M.
ROHNERTPARK COMMUNITYCENTER PARKINGLOT (5401SNYDERLANE)
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
PETSOFTHE MONTH:MEET YOURNEW BESTFRIEND!
Theseadorableadopteesarelookingfor love,bellyrubs,andsecondchances.
FROMMOMLIFETOBESTLIFE: MEETLOTUS
Meet Lotus - a true blossom waiting for her forever home! Lotus is a stunning 45-year-old Catahoula mix whose mothering days are finally behind her. She came to us as a stray with eight puppies-clearly not her first litter-but now it's her turn to be the one cherished and spoiled. This gentle girl is a social butterfly who enjoys the company of other dogs and even gets along with cats.
She recently completed heartworm treatment and is ready for a fresh, healthy start. With a little guidance and some fun training, Lotus will happily shed a few pounds and bloom into her best self. Sweet, affectionate, and full of love, Lotus is truly a 10/10 companion. If you're ready to give this wonderful girl the happy ending she deserves, apply to meet her today!
MEETSLINKY:POPCORNING HISWAYINTOYOURHEART
Meet Slinky! This 1-year-old male guinea pig is as wiggly and wonderful as his name suggests! Slinky is always on the go - zooming, popcorning, and twisting through tunnels like a little spring-loaded ball of joy. He's got a curious spirit, a sweet nature, and a love for snacks that knows no bounds Whether he's stretching out for a nap or showing off his acrobatic zoomies, Slinky brings the fun wherever he goes. He's looking for a loving home that appreciates a little bounce, a lot of squeaks, and endless cuddles. Slinky is one of four guinea pigs currently looking for a fresh start, so come meet them all!
Looking for a little slice of paradise? Meet Maui, an approximately 4-year-old black and white beauty who’s as sweet as a tropical breeze! With her gentle purrs and loving nature, Maui is the kind of cat who will happily curl up next to you after a long day and make everything feel just right This charming lady’s got just the right amount of playful energy and snuggles to satisfy everyone. Whether you’re working from home, binging your favorite show, or just enjoying a quiet moment, Maui will be right there, soaking it all in with you. She may not come with sandy beaches or palm trees, but Maui is pure sunshine in a cat form.
Ready to bring home your own little island of love? Maui is waiting for you!
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.
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!
Connect Sonoma State University students, faculty, and staff with your local business! Offer exclusive discounts to our community when they show their SSU ID.
HOW IT BENEFITS YOUR BUSINESS
NEW CUSTOMERS: INCREASED SALES: COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Increase brand awareness within the SSU Community Drive business through exclusive offers Strengthens ties with Sonoma State
EASY TO JOIN!
Simply decide on a discount that works for your business. Sign up online to participate. See QR code. Be featured on the discounts for Seawolves webpage!
Exclusive Interview
NONPROFIT SHOWCASE NONPROFIT SHOWCASE
Nourishing Health, Empowering Youth: A Look at Ceres Community Project
An Interview with Deborah Ramelli, Director of Development and Community Affairs
Welcome to the Rohnert Park Foundation’s Nonprofit Showcase, where we highlight organizations making a profound difference in their communities. This month, we're honored to feature Ceres Community Project, a remarkable nonprofit that has been cultivating health and community for 18 years from its main office in Sebastopol. We sat down with Deborah Ramelli, Director of Development and Community Affairs, to learn more about their inspiring work.
RP: Ceres is a recent grantee of the Rohnert Park Small Grants Program. Can you tell the audience more about what Ceres does?
DR: Ceres is dedicated to creating health for people, communities, and the planet. Our core mission revolves around healing food and empowering the next generation. We aim to strengthen community bonds, centering food as the cornerstone of health and making vital connections between what we eat and our well-being.
Our approach is multifaceted, operating through a layered model of medically tailored, homedelivered meals. Our culinary leads design specific recipes and meal plans for individuals navigating serious illnesses like cancer or COPD. This is all done under the careful guidance of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), ensuring meals are precisely tailored to our clients' health needs. This service significantly reduces the stress of eating well during difficult times, providing access to nutritious meals that clients might not otherwise be able to afford or prepare themselves. Ultimately, it helps people feel deeply connected to their community.
RP: Who primarily benefits from your services, and how do you identify or reach them?
DR: Ceres serves clients of all ages across Sonoma and Marin counties. We primarily identify and reach our clients through referrals from local health clinics, hospitals, and major doctors' offices. Word-of-mouth is also incredibly powerful for us, with friends,
family members, social networks, and churches often connecting individuals to our services. We are currently piloting services in Napa and Solano Counties, with a vision to expand access beyond our immediate local reach.
We recognize that equitable access to good food and health is a systemic issue. Beyond direct meal provision, Ceres actively works to: Advocate for policies that make healthy food equitable and widely available. We demonstrate that medically tailored meals can improve or stabilize health issues, even sparking interest from insurers California, for example, is innovating through the Medi-Cal program, where doctors can prescribe medically tailored meals just like any other prescription We are also supporting medical members in Napa and Solano through similar initiatives
Empower youth through our unique Youth Development Program Teenagers volunteer with us for three months, dedicating 2-3 hours once a week They learn by doing – from healthy soil practices to meal preparation, gaining a wide range of knowledge and skills This program fosters connections they might not otherwise make, developing soft job skills like punctuality and teaching them the importance of whole, fresh foods With teens from 55 schools feeding into our program, operating out of two kitchens (Sebastopol, Novato) and two gardens (Petaluma, Sebastopol), we're training the next generation of change agents Many of our alumni have been influenced towards careers in public health, medicine, farming, or becoming social advocates We even have stories of former participants who became chefs or are now teaching cooking skills to foster care youth
RP: What are your key programs and activities?
DR: Our work is primarily structured around three pillars: Meals, Youth, and Policy/Advocacy. We collaborate closely with organizations like SR Community Health and Petaluma Health Center to amplify our impact. Beyond our local reach, Ceres leads a National Affiliate Program, helping other communities replicate our successful model. We provide training, ongoing support, and fundraising guidance. We've trained 14 communities and now have official partners in places like Denmark, with groups in New Zealand and locations like Eugene, Oregon, and Hartford, Connecticut, also receiving training. A key to success for any Ceres affiliate is a strong sense of community ownership, which we foster by committing to replicate the core tenets of our model: providing very healthy, nutrient-dense meals at low or no cost to those in need, adhering to our main standards.
Our success is built on the dedication of our 1,000 volunteers per year, who truly embody a sense of ownership within the community.
RP: How can the public get involved?
DR: There are many rewarding ways to get involved and directly benefit your community, including Rohnert Park:
www.reallygreatsite.com
Volunteer: Join us in our gardens in Petaluma and Sebastopol (for teens and adults) or become a "delivery angel."
Delivering food allows you to directly interact with our clients and witness the good you are doing firsthand.
Donate: Become a monthly donor to provide sustained support. If you own a business, consider hosting a "dine and donate" event.
Spread the Word: Help us reach more people who could benefit from or support our mission.
Cookbook: Support Ceres by purchasing our cookbook, available online, and bring some of our healthy, healing recipes into your own kitchen!
CONTACT CERES
7351 Bodega Ave, Sebastopol, CA (707) 829-5833
https://www.ceresproject.org/ @cerescommunityproject info@ceresproject.org
WHO WAS CERES?
In ancient Roman religion, Ceres was revered as the goddess of agriculture, grain, fertility, and motherly relationships. Her domain encompassed the vital aspects of sustenance and the nurturing spirit, making her a central figure in the Roman pantheon.
Demeter is Ceres's Greek counterpart, sharing dominion over agriculture, the harvest, and fertility
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Mary's Pizza Shack: A Rohnert Park Legacy, From Scratch and From the Heart
For decades, Mary's Pizza Shack has been more than just a restaurant in Rohnert Park; it's a true community cornerstone, deeply woven into the fabric of local life The current owners, Jonnie and Chase are honored to continue this cherished legacy, especially since Jonnie’s husband, Chase, grew up here, attending Rancho Cotate High They both feel profoundly rooted in this community, and for them, carrying on this family business is a way to give back to a city that's given them so much
Mary's story began in 1959 with Mary Fazio, a trailblazing woman who single-handedly ran a restaurant in a male-dominated industry. Today, as the fourth generation of family ownership, they still use her original recipes, keeping her spirit and flavor alive in every dish. In fact, Chase is Mary's great-grandson, and their children both Lawrence Jones Middle School alumni are already helping out as the fifth generation, ensuring the family tradition continues for years to come.
The "From Scratch" Difference
At Mary's, "from scratch" isn't just a saying; it's their philosophy, a literal hands-on approach to quality that sets them apart
Dough Made Daily: When they hire new team members, they literally learn to make the dough from scratch, starting with 50-pound bags of flour. Homemade Everything: Even their popular ranch dressing is made in-house, ordering buttermilk specifically for that purpose. This dedication means every bite reflects their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Evolving with a Craft Touch: The Bar Program
While their roots are in pizza, they’re always looking to innovate while honoring tradition. Their elevated craft cocktail bar, a unique feature at their Rohnert Park location and also found in Downtown Sonoma and Petaluma, is where Chase and Jonnie truly bring their expertise.
Seasonal Creativity: Their craft cocktail menu changes seasonally, offering inventive, house-made drinks. Take their "Send Me a Postcard" cocktail, for instance, which sees seasonal variations like summer blueberry and autumn pear with spices, currently on its eighth version
Unique Offerings: You'll find unique concoctions like the Clover Club or an Aviation, cocktails you'd be hard-pressed to find elsewhere, all crafted with the same high-quality standard as their food
Curated Beer Selection: With backgrounds from Steel and Hops Brewery, Chase and Jonnie have poured their knowledge into curating an extensive beer menu. We feature local favorites like Old Caz and Parliament brews, not only supporting our community but also enhancing the "gastro" experience, ensuring perfect pairings with Mary’s food
Deep Roots in the Community
Being the first fourth-generation owners, they see themselves as stewards of the Mary's brand, committed to being a "home base" for long-time customers while reaching out to attract new Mary's lovers This commitment to community runs deep:
Consistent Recognition: They’re incredibly proud to have won "Best Family Friendly restaurant" in the Press Democrat repeatedly, alongside multiple city awards for their unwavering community support and for being a great place to work
Empowering Through Employment: They actively partner with organizations like T-Wex and Sonoma County Job Works, hiring numerous individuals who are at risk or re-entering the workforce They’ve also sponsored and participated in unhoused job fairs and second-chance job fairs, providing vital opportunities to those individuals who need it most
A Place for Every Story: Rohnert Park is undeniably our home Chase's personal history is woven through the local schools Hahn, Lawrence Jones, and Rancho Cotate and now their kids are doing the same. But you don't need to be family or even work here to have a "Mary's story " They’re the place where T-ball teams celebrate, where marriages are proposed, and where countless family memories are made Mary's is part of the very fabric of life here; it's where you feel at home
Looking forward, they’re focused on keeping things fresh with new menu specials and creative offerings, and they’re excited to expand their catering options, including cocktail catering with a new cart launching later this year.
How can Rohnert Park continue to support Mary’s? Just keep loving pizza like they do! They’re here for us, serving up tradition, quality, and community, one slice at a time
#CONNECT
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!
MEET YOUR CITY COUNCIL
The Rohnert Park City Council is elected by the Rohnert Park voters to serve for four-year terms There are five members of the Council, including a Mayor and a Vice Mayor.
The City Council adopts goals and policies during Council meetings to set the direction for the City. The Council approves and adopts the City's Financial Plans, General Plan and the Capital Improvement Plan
The City Council appoints the City Manager, the City Attorney, and members of City Commissions, Committees, and Boards.
To find your district, please click here and simply type in your address at the top-right search bar of the interactive map.
CITYCOUNCIL MEETINGS
The City of Rohnert Park welcomes your participation at City Council meetings at 5:00 p m , on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month.
If you are interested in learning about issues going on in your own backyard, community events, and other hot topics, please feel free to watch on Cable Channel 26, YouTube, or by visiting our Meeting Central.
Come get involved!
Want to receive email notifications when agendas are posted? Subscribe here.
UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.
Rohnert Park City Council Chambers 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.
Rohnert Park City Council Chambers
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Sign-up for agenda posting notifications
Visit Meeting Central here to sign-up for email updates
Review Agenda Materials
Visit Meeting Central here to view agenda materials for upcoming and past meetings
Attend the meeting in-person or watch live from home
Meeting Central YouTube Cable Channel 26
Provide Public Comment
Provide public comment in-person during the meeting or from home by emailing your comment to publiccomment@rpcity.org
