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Grand Lake Merchant News

If you’ve somehow resisted an in-person visit to Monkey Forest Road, here’s a link to a December 22 article in the Oakland Tribune and a second link to my own “before and after” photo. To tempt you even further, here’s another photo of just one of a great many distinctive architectural features–the junction between two contrasting wall surfaces.

Monkey Forest Road is the first in an ongoing series of openings that we’re going to see over the next couple of months.

After six months of major improvements to the interior and exterior, Easy Lounge is scheduled to formally re-open on January 3. I haven’t been inside yet but I did take this photo of the exterior. Improvements include a new entry door, new paint and a new stucco facade to replace the wood siding that was beyond repair.

In addition to the physical changes, Easy’s owners are leaning towards a more sophisticated ambience. In addition, the ever-popular Farmers Market Cocktails will be offered seven days a week–not just Saturdays. I talked to Colin and he noted that Easy has always included fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their cocktails. He confided that the produce is a bit limited this time of year but they do have citrus, apples and pears readily available. In addition, ingredients for the more savory cocktails are almost always available.

The Parlor at Caña launched a soft opening earlier this evening and tomorrow, for New Year’s Eve, they will be offering a five-course, prix fixe menu with a complimentary glass of champagne and complimentary wine tastings. For more details, check out their website. FYI: until they iron out a technicality with the Beverage Control District, they will be serving only wine and bottled beer. When I walked by yesterday, I caught this photo of someone staining and varnishing the magnificent entry doors and tonight, took this photo of the completed interior. Will have to return later to take more photos of some of the details. When you visit, be sure to check out the hand-wrought wine rack in the rear.

While waiting for Caña to open its door this evening, I wandered around taking photos including one of the Good Vibes billboard high on the roof adjacent to Heart and Dagger. At first glance, it appears to be breathlessly advertising the arrival of Good Vibrations around the corner but is actually tempting one to visit San Diego.

The timing is exquisite as Good Vibrations is, in fact, hoping to open this Monday, January 2. Yesterday afternoon, I took this photo of the exterior as a painter gave a fresh coat of paint to the doors and window trim. By the way, the signage on the front windows is very classy and mostly etched in glass. Whether you supported or opposed their permit, I do hope you can chuckle with me as you read their logo enshrined in their display window: “Good Vibrations. Creating a buzz since 1977″.

While it might appear to the casual observer that construction has been ongoing at the former Adam’s Burger for an eternity, it really hasn’t and more importantly, the end is in finally in sight. I talked to Abe Ajlouny, the new owner of what’s going to be called FlipSide earlier this week. He’s hoping to open by the third week in January. But after peeking inside yesterday and seeing an open trench in the concrete, I suspect that might be optimistic.

In any case, it sounds like it will be well worth the wait. Abe has a sister restaurant on Valencia in San Francisco called Urbun Burger that has very good reviews. FlipSide will have seating for about 36 patrons. Half-pound burgers will feature Niman Ranch beef while the turkey is supplied by Dietzel. Produce and other ingredients will be locally sourced including ice cream from Double Rainbow for use in their shakes.

If you’re hankering for a burrito from Chipotle in what used to be China Lake Express , the wait is going to be considerably longer. The recent news that they have filed an application for a Conditional Use Permit to serve alcohol is actually the first real confirmation that Chipotle would be the new tenant and construction has not yet commenced.

Incidentally, if you have an opinion pro or con on their CUP permit, you can email City Planner, Aubrey Rose: arose@oaklandnet.com. Just for the record, I see little likelihood that their application will be rejected since the application for Wingstop was approved.

Heart and Dagger Saloon was recently profiled in a nice article posted on the Oakland North website.

Last month, I posted a couple of photos that I had taken of holiday window displays on Lakeshore and subsequently went back and took some more. My favorite from this latter batch is this photo taken through Namaste Yoga’s front window.

Last month, I also boasted that there were no vacancies on Lakeshore or Lake Park but maybe I jinxed them. The space vacated by Sleep and Beyond is still vacant and across the street, Hair Sessions Phase II at 3411 Lakeshore has relocated. On the other hand, I talked to Richard Odenheimer, the property manager for the latter and he said that there’s been lots of interest with multiple offers likely in the offing.

The volunteer workday on Grand Avenue on December 4 was quite successful. It was organized by Grand Avenue Chiropractor, Robert Townsend with a big assist from Eric Hughes and several other community volunteers.

Trees up and down Grand were trimmed from the theater up to Mandana while tree wells, planters and the Walker Avenue parking were all spruced up. Two other Grand Avenue merchants participated: Jesse Jensen from Rebooty and Scott Yundt, husband of Awaken Chiropractic’s Kenda Burke.

As an aside, Kenda and Scott have just replaced over half of their front-yard parking strip with a raised planter bed. It’s really a big contribution towards a more pedestrian-friendly avenue and we can only hope that the attorneys next door take the hint and do the same. As another aside, Lou Grantham, who has been a long-time Splash Pad volunteer, would have been out weeding but instead completed her survey of Grand Avenue merchants in preparation for an update to the current GABA Business Directory.

One other note regarding Grand Avenue. Jesse Jensen and I have been talking to a very few Grand Avenue merchants about organizing a monthly arts and crafts fair on Grand. The basic objective would be two-fold. One, to provide an outlet for local artists but also to capitalize on the success of the Saturday farmers market by luring patrons out of the park and up the street where they’ll discover a wealth of restaurants, shops and services of which they’re currently unaware. If you’d like to get involved in the outreach and planning process, please stop by Rebooty or give Jesse a call at (415) 994-4230.

Farmers Market

The farmers market will be open as usual tomorrow, New Year’s Eve, but will likely be a bit smaller than usual–partly due to the absence of the seasonal fruit growers but also due to those vendors who choose to stay home and enjoy a holiday weekend–a rare privilege for folks in the agricultural trade.

Tomorrow will be Ahhh Massage’s last day at the market as the Agricultural Institute of Marin’s Board of Directors has opted to not renew the membership of several non-food vendors including Ahhh Massage, the newspaper vendors and the Acupuncture clinic. Ahhh Massage owner Ed Rockowitz is not a happy camper as detailed in a letter that I’ve uploaded to the Splash Pad website.

Since the Splash Pad Farmers Market Advisory Committee has not yet discussed this specific issue, I phoned the group Chair, Jerry Barclay. He confirmed that typically, SPFMAC has left such decisions in the hands of the market management. In general terms, we’ve expressed a preference (all things being equal) for Oakland-based vendors; insisted that the market’s first priority has to be on locally-sourced, sustainable food products; and that the non-food vendors (including artists and craftspeople) be limited to a reasonable number.

For the record, over the past year, several other sellers have had their membership revoked without any negative feedback. This has occurred as a result of AIM’s on-site inspections that ensure that vendors are actually selling what they claim to grow–or in the case of the seafood vendor, catch.

In terms of Ahhh Massage, I, personally, am a bit ambivalent–less so, If I know that their space will be occupied by a new farm vendor that’s a big plus to the market. For those of you who are going to miss your regular Saturday massage, take comfort in knowing that Ahhh is at Farmer Joe’s on Fruitvale seven days a week and beginning this month, also at Whole Foods daily.

Entertainment for January includes the following:

January 7: MIKE KLAPHOLZ + DIEGO JAMEAU

January 14: Big Dog + IKE COSSE

January 21: FLOWTILLA + Asheba

January 28: 5150 Band + Keenan Webster of Talking Wood

Events Calendar

January 16: Martin Luther King National Day of Service. There are dozens of volunteer projects scheduled locally. Here’s a partial list. The closest project to this neighborhood is the one at Lakeview Gardens. Last year, they had several hundred volunteers organized into teams that accomplished an incredible amount. I don’t have all the details, but these projects typically begin at 9:00 AM or a bit earlier.

Odd and Ends

Our proposal for a parklet on Lakeshore has been tentatively approved by the city pending some revisions to our original set of drawings. At this point, our biggest need is input from contractors, architects, engineers and skilled carpenters. To volunteer or receive additional background information, please email me at info@splashpad.org.

Thanks to Jim Ratliff for calling my attention to a late-breaking story from the East Bay Express. The Parkway Cinema will be reincarnated in a former glass factory on 24th in the Uptown Arts District. Although the facade and location would not seem to be ideal, it’s worth noting that Allen Michaan’s original Rialto Theater on Gilman had the same humble beginnings.

Until today, December has been unusually dry and almost balmy with less than two-tenths of an inch of precipitation–far below the 4.48 inch average. Most of you are probably enjoying the respite but farmers must be freaking out worrying about a shortage of irrigation supplies next year. As for me, I’m pissed! I’ve been using an ointment to treat Actinic Keratoses (the plague of red-heads from Southern California) that forces me to avoid prolonged sun exposure. Instead of looking out the window at sheets of rain falling as I’d expected, I’m mostly home-bound while seeing nothing but clear skies and temperatures in the 60′s.

Kudos to my Balfour Avenue neighbor, Lesley Podesta for a feature article in this month’s Oakland Magazine about “Running for a Better Oakland”–the group she founded last year. If you’re so inclined, they still do need additional volunteers.

I‘m hoping not to make obituaries a regular feature of this newsletter but I’m compelled to take this opportunity to pay tribute to two Oakland residents who both passed away in the last couple of weeks far too early.

Architect Ron Bishop was a tireless advocate for bicycle transportation and for Oakland, in general, for some twenty years. He served as Chair of the Oakland Bicycle Pedestrian Safety Committee in the early 90′s and helped organize this nation’s first Bike to Work Day in 1994.

I got to know Ron several years ago when I joined his Easy Riders Meet-up group. Ron’s intention was to encourage beginning to intermediate riders to get out on two wheels (with an assist from public transportation) and explore the surrounding countryside. It was a perfect fit. I didn’t have to wear Spandex and a typical ride consisted of equal parts riding, eating and resting. On my second or third outing, we took BART to SF and rode across the Golden Gate Bridge and up to Larkspur Landing for a ferry ride back to SF. I was blown away and decided then and there, that I would do more such rides and as often as practical.

On the ferry ride back to the SF Ferry Terminal, I took this photo of Ron with the broad, infectious smile that accurately reflected his approach to life. For more details about Ron’s life and passing, see this tribute from the East Bay Bicycle Coalition.

Sanjiv Handa, sole proprietor of the East Bay News Service and Oakland’s most knowledgeable gadfly (a term which I use affectionately) died earlier this week at the age of 55.

I first met Sanjiv in 2000 when I began attending council meetings whenever Splash Pad Park was on the agenda. At the time, he’d already been a fixture at Oakland City Hall for ten years. Most folks either hated him or loved him and unfortunately, some folks in City Hall fell into the former category. Tammerlin Drummond in her December 28 column in the Tribune writes that “Yet to others–city officials and residents alike–Handa was an annoying, grandstanding pest who wasted countless hours at public meetings with pointless speechifying.”

I never felt that way and I suspect that most community advocates who chafed at 1 or, at best, 2 minute time restrictions at council meetings welcomed his ability to muster the time to properly address issues. Yes, he was abrasive and at times, redundant but again and again, Sanjiv was the one person willing and able to stand up and point out (when necessary) that the Emperor had no clothes. There’s no replacement waiting in the wings and I fear he will be greatly missed.

If you’d like to comment on any of the above news, please do so on the Grand Lake Neighbors website.

Grand Lake Merchant News

To paraphrase Ed Sullivan, we have really big news. Monkey Forest Road, which I’ve been talking about for a full year (beginning with the December 2, 2010 newsletter) is tentatively opening this coming Monday, December 5.

The sign is up and the landscaping is in–complemented by a bas relief stone carving at the base of the rear retaining wall.

For the record, owners Chris and Arnel Cooper invited me to take photos of the interior but when I peeked inside on Monday, lots of folks were busy with last-minute details and I didn’t want to be in the way. More importantly, I feared my photos wouldn’t be able to do this project adequate justice. Instead, you’ll have to go see for yourself. Before you do, tuck this “before photo” into your memory bank and be prepared to be astounded by the transformation.

Meanwhile, the first incarnation of the Monkey Forest Road web site features a sampling of their merchandise including exquisite furnishings, paintings and jewelry. For additional information including details about their coffee bar and pastries, please visit their Facebook page.

Monkey Forest Road is the latest in an ongoing procession of improvements that have contributed to Grand Avenue’s renaissance over the past several years. The other, most obvious examples I’ve mentioned repeatedly–namely, Boot and Shoe Service, Ikaros and Grand Tavern. But I could also cite the repaving of the parking lots belonging to Milano Ristorante and the one next to Grand Oaks restaurant that is owned by the Piedmont Executive Office Center. I could also point to the 2-story house next door to Milano that was abandoned and literally falling down. It was purchased by Tania Leullieux who has restored the interior and exterior and added an attractive, fenced yard.

There are also a number of new businesses that have opened during the interim that are contributing immensely to an improved ambience. The most sophisticated of these is McMullen a women’s fashion boutique at 1235 Grand (next to Ace Hardware) that opened in April, 2010. Owner Sherri McMullen began her career with Neiman Marcus and is now capitalizing on her years of experience in the fashion industry with her own shop which offers a wide selection of designer clothing, accessories and shoes that are stylish, yet versatile.

Currently, McMullen is having a special sale with up to 40% off on Fall merchandise. Kathy Kamei, a designer of fine jewelry hand-crafted in Bali will make a personal appearance in the shop on December 16 from 2:00 to 7:00 P.M. for a Kathy Kamei trunk show. Discounts will be offered along with champagne and pie from pieTisserie.

Also fairly new to Grand Avenue is the Interior Design Salon which opened at 3711 Grand several months back. Owner Deborah Carson boasts 28 years of experience as an interior designer.

I have to confess that when I’m inside boutiques and interior design studios such as the above, I feel (and look) like a fish out of water which is not at all the case with Rebooty–another more recent addition to the avenue. They’re located at 3654 Grand Ave which old-timers (like me) will remember as the long-time home of Time Was Antiques.

Rebooty is owned and operated by a husband and wife team, Jesse and Kathy Jensen. They specialize in art and furnishings made from recycled or repurposed materials–much of which has been diverted from landfills. Kathy is a contributing artist in her own right and they also have on consignment, the works of half a dozen other artists–several of whom are represented in this photo of a chest that Kathy laboriously hand-painted. By the way, at $120, the chest is a big-time bargain.

An even more recent addition to the avenue is Tuina Massage Alternative Therapy at 3221 Grand. They offer a variety of massage techniques including Acupressure, Hot Stone, Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Sport, Swedish and Foot Reflexology.

This photo shows the exterior of Tuina and Newfangles, their next-door neighbor. The former has new paint and a new awning while Newfangles boasts a new sign and an updated, distinctive paint job. If you’re not familiar with Newfangles, owner Alyce Preston tells me she’s had a shop in the immediate neighborhood since1986. Although the location has moved three times that I’m aware of, the focus has remained constant–specializing in everything from jeans to cocktail dresses for tall women.

While I’m encouraged by all the progress that’s been made thus far on Grand, I do have to note that there’s still roughly half a dozen storefronts that desperately need cleaning and upgrading. In addition, the sidewalks, gutters and landscaping need ongoing maintenance. Eric Hughes, as an individual and, more recently, with the formal assistance of his Grand Lake Improvement Committee has been doing graffiti removal and litter pick-up for well over twenty years.

In addition, a gentleman named Michael Harris has been sweeping the gutters and the sidewalks on upper Grand on his own initiative for the past year. Apparently, some of the business owners help him out with cash donations. When you see him working on Grand, at the very least, extend your thanks and let him know how much his work is appreciated.

For me, the most encouraging sign for Grand’s long-term future is that the GABA meeting that Chiropractor, Robert Townsend initiated to discuss cleaning up the avenue was attended by fifteen people who ended up scheduling a volunteer work day for this Sunday, December 4 from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. If you’d like to pitch in, you’re asked to bring gloves, hats and tools–although, at least some of the latter will be available. Plans are to sweep the sidewalks and gutters; prune trees; weed tree wells and planters; and pick up litter. Volunteers are going to assemble initially in front of the Grand Lake Theatre but if you arrive later, just look for groups working up and down Grand–as well as in the Walker Avenue parking lot.

As I reported last month, Wingstop owners La Donna and Emon Tolliver have applied for a Conditional Use Permit and a Variance that would allow on-site sale of beer and wine. The hearing date for their application has been scheduled for December 14. If you have questions, phone City Planner, Aubrey Rose at 238-2071. Comments can be emailed to arose@oaklandnet.com. You can also address the Planning Commission directly at their meeting on December 14.

As an aside, I regret to say that the Tolivers have apparently rejected the recommendations for aesthetic improvements to the facade made by neighborhood architect Jeffrey Feldman. In all fairness, they’ve already budgeted $200,000 for the restaurant make-over and the thought of spending more is understandably daunting. Nevertheless, their lease is for twenty years and their neighbors (including adjacent merchants) are going to be stuck looking at a largely blank, stucco facade that could have been vastly improved at relatively little cost.

Namaste Yoga is offering two special classes on New Year’s Day with all proceeds going to the Alameda County Food Bank. They’ve also initiated a Community Acupuncture Clinic “where participants can experience the benefits of acupuncture in a restful, community environment”. This service is available on the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month from 12:00-1:30pm.

One quick note regarding Izek Day Spa Salon: they’re participating in a Vine Ministry program that will provide new coats and new toys to children in West Oakland’s Lafayette School. Details are on this flyer. Unwrapped donations should be brought to Izek during their regular business hours no later than December 18.

Another quick note regarding Trader Joe’s hours: they’ve applied for modification of their Conditional Use Permit in order to operate an additional two hours–opening at 8:00 A.M. and closing at 10:00 P.M. Their application is currently in the hands of the Zoning Manager. Once a decision is rendered, appeals can be filed.

With the sun setting so early in the evening, I find that I’m far more aware of the lighting and window displays in neighborhood shops–particularly since many of them boast holiday themes. Earlier this week, I posted half a dozen early-evening photos on Flickr. My favorites are this photo of Arizmendi and this photo of Lin Jia.

Farmers Market

I don’t have much to share regarding the farmers market. Market Manager, Chris Blackburn returns from his vacation this weekend. By all accounts, vendors and market patrons easily adapted to the changes in the configuration of the market to accommodate Brett’s Christmas Tree lot. The weather last Saturday was unusually mild for late November and the long-range forecast (for whatever, it’s worth) calls for dry weather for the next two Saturdays. Best news for Grand Lake Farmers Market addicts: no need to go cold turkey on the 24th or cold duck on New Year’s Eve. The market will be open both days.

Entertainment for December includes the following:

December 3: Susan Holland
December 10: The Harkenbacks
December 17: Anderson-gram + Jimbo Trout
December 24: BRIAN BERGERON
December 31: Susan Holland

Events Calendar

December 4: Volunteer work day on Grand Avenue beginning at 9:00 A.M. in front of the Grand Lake Theatre.

December 10: The Oakland Urban Path group is sponsoring their second annual, Walk and Shop tour beginning at 10:00 A.M. from the corner of Lakeshore and Prince. They will “explore the neighborhoods and stores of Crocker Highlands, Grand Lake, Piedmont Avenue, Adams Point and others via the historic stairways and pathways that once served the Key Route Street Car”. To whet your appetite, here’s a photo I took on last year’s inaugural walk.

December 16-17: The annual holiday celebration on Lakeshore Avenue will feature free carriage rides, face-painting and visits from Santa. Also, be on the look-out for merchant specials and an appearance by the LABC carolers on Saturday from 4:00-5:00 P.M. For more details including specific time frames, please visit the Lakeshore Avenue BID website.

Odd and Ends

Our proposal for a parklet on Lakeshore has been submitted to the city and we’re awaiting confirmation that we’re one of up to eight groups that have approval to submit detailed plans prior to starting construction. Here’s Jeffrey Lim’s conceptual drawing for the Arizmendi half of the parklet and for the other half in front of Footlocker. If you’d like additional information, you may want to read the Parklet Narrative that accompanied the application.

At this point, there’s a lot of energy involved in this project but what we very much need are some individuals who have contracting, architectural and/or engineering expertise who can sit down with us and help delineate the nuts and bolts construction details. If you’re one of those individuals, please send an email to info@splashpad.org and I’ll share it with the other members of the steering committee.

Two years ago, I took this photo as Oakland artist, Inka Pullen put the finishing touches on a mural for Taste of Joy chef/owner Brian Hill who is a member of her extended family. This week, I learned that the US State Department has selected it as one of nineteen images that will be used to depict the varied faces of US culture and sports. All 19 photos will be incorporated into portable display panels that will be sent to thirty US embassies worldwide where they will be incorporated into presentations for students considering advanced degrees here in the states.

I’m very honored to be a part of this but the overwhelming majority of the credit goes to the artist who so ably depicted this New Orleans street scene and also to jazz itself–an art form that long ago proved its worth as one of our most effective good-will ambassadors.

Speaking of murals, I’ve long wanted to publicly call attention to my inclusion in Peter Lee’s mural in the Trader Joe’s parking lot. I’d like to claim that Peter honored me for my contributions to the Splash Pad Park project but, in all honesty, I extorted this tribute in exchange for my loan of a ladder that allowed Peter to reach the uppermost corner. As you’ll discover in viewing this photo, his tribute is roughly equivalent to the deed that prompted it. I’m about half the size of the bird in flight; absolutely dwarfed by the squirrel and infinitely smaller than “Miles”, Nancy Strange’s dog which is depicted larger than life and in a far more prominent location. I remain forever humbled.

If you’d like to comment on any of the above news, please do so on the Grand Lake Neighbors website.

Grand Lake Merchant News

Since we last talked about Wingstop, the franchisees (La Donna and Emon Tolliver) have applied for a Conditional Use Permit and a Variance that would allow on-site sale of beer and wine. The hearing date for their application is tentatively scheduled for the second week in December. Please wait for official confirmation of that date before emailing your comments to City Planner, Aubrey Rose.

Le Donna and Emon graciously attended this month’s Grand Lake Neighbors meeting to answer questions and talk about their operation. The space on Lakepark will accommodate 30 plus seats plus a number of large screen TV’s that will provide coverage of major sporting events. Alcohol sales represent no more than 1% of their revenue and they will proceed with plans to open whether or not the beer and wine license is approved.

The Tolivers also indicated a willingness to look into expanding their menu to include more healthy options. However, as a franchisee, they have fairly limited options and any menu changes (a salad bar, for example) would have to be approved by the main office. According to this blurb on the Wingstop website, the existing Toliver locations are amongst the highest grossing in the chain which means they should have a bit more pull with the “suits” in Richardson, Texas.

The Tolivers also invited input on improving the aesthetics of the property. Neighborhood architect Jeffrey Feldman donated his services and put together a list of proposals that would eliminate the existing blank stucco facade in favor of one that features some architectural details that hearken back to the original construction and complement the art deco detailing of the adjacent buildings that house Caña, Lanesplitter and Sprint.

Meanwhile, they have begun construction starting with a new, much needed sewer line. Hopefully, they will be able to accommodate at least some of our concerns but trying to win over neighborhood converts is going to be an uphill struggle–even if they’re driving (give them a round of applause, please) their hybrid.

Speaking of facade improvements, Gary Rizzo two doors up at Kwik Way just had the clunky brick pillars removed to expose the original steel support posts. As this image shows, the facade is far more open allowing the overhanging wings to “float in space” as they did originally. In addition, the pigeons will have to find other roosting places. Thanks, Gary for doing this and also for the monthly car shows.

I was disappointed to find that Sleep & Beyond had closed their Lakeshore shop which was their sole retail location. I had talked to Sarvár last month and he explained that 99% of their sales were to their wholesale distributors and they had held on to the retail site primarily to garner feedback that allowed them to further refine the product and the packaging. One of their most recent innovations was a package that resembles a Prada handbag.

As an aside, I’d like to note that Sarvár (who is roughly 23) and his older brother, Sardór (who is now 25) migrated to the United States in their early teens to further their educations and now operate a company with hundreds of distributors throughout the country. I find it comforting to know that despite all the outcry about how immigrants are destroying our economy, it’s still possible for individuals such as these to realize the American dream and contribute to economic growth–particularly since they’re offering products that are 100% organic.

Although I’ll miss visiting with the Azimovich brothers (not to mention Koko–their Merino mascot), I was pleased to learn that the space will most likely be leased to one of their retail distributors Ergo Sleep Systems which already has a location in Berkeley. If this comes to pass, organic/green mattresses will be available in addition to Sleep & Beyond bedding.

In the how-time-flies department, Lin Jia will be observing its first anniversary this Friday, November 4. Quite honestly, those of us who were amongst Marcia’s biggest boosters worried that Lin Jia would suffer the same fate that befalls the overwhelming majority of new restaurants–particularly since Lin Jia is located at the very end of the Lakeshore commercial district with minimal pedestrian traffic. I’m happy to report that (thanks to a high quality menu and lots of good reviews) we can now stop worrying about its closure and fret, instead about having to wait for a table. The “final straw” was the recent Michael Bauer 2-1/2 Star Review accompanied by some breathtaking photos that brought new patrons in droves.

The two vacant restaurant spaces on the opposite side of Lakeshore are apparently about to be filled. Word is that Chipotle has signed a lease for the space that was vacated by the China Express restaurant. It’s unfortunate that we’re getting yet another chain on Lakeshore but the good news is that MacDonald’s divested of all their shares some time ago and Chipotle does make a legitimate effort to provide foods that are locally grown using sustainable practices. They get bonus points in my book for their support of Farm Aid programs.

The other vacancy was created well over a year ago when Adam’s Burgers closed with the expectation that it would reopen as the Flip Side. That never happened but according to the property manager, the Flip Side backers have continued to pay rent and have located a tentative buyer for the restaurant business and fixtures. If that and the deal across the street at Sleep & Beyond come to pass, the Lakeshore Business Improvement District can celebrate a phenomenal achievement (zero vacancies) at a time when commercial districts everywhere are suffering.

Grand Avenue is still well behind the curve compared to Lakeshore but they seem to be on a roll thanks to an infusion of new business and property owners–most of whom want to get involved, in one capacity or another, in efforts to upgrade and energize the Grand Avenue Business District.

Leading the charge is Monkey Forest Road which should be opening in the next couple of weeks. Now that contractors are working outside, the progress is obvious. The exterior painting is done. The doors and windows are in. The parking lot has been repaved. For photos and significant details, please visit their Facebook page.

Other newcomers to Grand Avenue include the following:

• Simplicity Salon recently opened at 3639 Grand in the space that was previously occupied by Smart Herbs and Teas. Simplicity’s owner, Alicia, previously had a station at Izek Spa and Salon on Lakeshore.
• Another newcomer really isn’t. Clair Frederick had long maintained an office in the Grand Executive Building but purchased a building across the street at 3540 Grand and recently moved into its second-floor suite. Her business is called MerryMakers and for seventeen years, they’ve been manufacturing dolls that represent characters from children’s books–both contemporary and classic. Clair proudly noted that they are currently offering dolls from six of the New York Times Top Ten children’s book list.

Here’s a photo that I took this afternoon of Claire flanked by some of her company’s creations. Dolls can be purchased through their online catalogue but the majority of their business is wholesaling to book stores and other retailers.

A ground floor space in her building is currently undergoing major renovations and will open in December as a dental office.

• The building next door at 3560 also has a new owner. Ruth Stroup moved her Farmers Insurance office from Piedmont Avenue after purchasing and remodeling the downstairs space. It has a lovely ambiance thanks in part to the view (out the side window) of the mural that Peter Lee painted alongside Davidson Way. On the opposite interior wall is a cluster of the historic Oakland posters that Galleria Scola has been printing and framing.

 ·  Across the street in Suite 105 of the Grand Executive Building, Kelly Wright and her husband have set up their State Farm Insurance office.

• Up at 3718 Grand in Suite 1, the Oakland Acupuncture Project is scheduled to open on November 7. This is the second location for a practice started by Whitney Thorniley and Roselle McNeilly in Oakland’s Laurel District. For the Grand Avenue location, they’re adding a third partner, Jeff Levin, who is a neighborhood resident.

I’m forwarding an invitation to their Grand Opening:

On Sunday, November 13th OAP is pleased to offer free acupuncture treatments from 10:00am-2:00pm. Patients are asked to schedule an appointment online at http://www.oaklandacupunctureproject.com or by calling 510-842-6350. This will be followed by refreshments and a reception from 2:00pm-5:00pm. All are welcome.

• If you need more tangible proof about the positive changes underway on Grand, Chiropractor Robert Townsend, who is in Suite 3 at 3718, has requested a Grand Avenue Business Association meeting to talk specifically about how to clean up the Avenue. The meeting is scheduled for next Monday, November 7 from 6:30 to 7:30 at Jenny’s Cafe. You can RSVP using this Evite link or by phoning Robert at 708-9363.

Before leaving Grand Avenue, let me also take note of the fact that the Grand Oaks Restaurant at 3701 Grand has survived not one–but twenty-three years. Fairly recently, they did reinvent themselves as a sports bar but still offer a full brunch and dinner menu. The latter continues to feature an Early Bird Special that includes soup or salad with entrees priced from $11.95 to $14.95.

Farmers Market

I confess that I’m feeling a bit sorry for new Market Manager, Chris Blackburn. He’s only held the job for less than two months and in that period, he’s suffered the following trials and tribulations:

• It started with me ribbing him in print for wearing an Oregon Ducks sweatshirt.
• Then, he learned that the city was imposing parking fees under the freeway just about the same time he found the “height limit sign” at the parking lot entry dangling from one side when he arrived at 5:00 AM.
• Not long after that, there was a high-speed car chase with some 15 police cars in hot pursuit of a stolen vehicle. After heading down Lakeshore and then past the market at alarmingly high speeds, it ended with a crash around the corner on Grand at MacArthur.
• The following Saturday, when Chris arrived, he found one of the tractors that had been involved in the Lakeshore repaving project inside the park in the space usually occupied by the orchid vendor. Fortunately, he tracked down one of the contractors who moved the offending vehicle and then tossed Chris a set of keys in case he needed to move any of the other pieces of heavy equipment surrounding the park. Later that morning, the Occupy Oakland protestors paraded past the market and up Lakeshore and then back down again where they temporarily blocked the Lakeshore Avenue freeway off ramp. Why did the march intentionally pass the Grand Lake market? For the same reason, every single home listing within a two-mile radius mentions its proximity to the market. Isn’t it nice to be the in destination!
• This past Saturday, I shared with Chris my intention to document his travails and urge Splash Pad Newsletter readers to give him a much-needed, hug when they next saw him. In reply, he shared yet another incident of which I was completely unaware. According to Chris, one morning he unlocked the porta-potties and noted a strange interior illumination. When he peeked inside, he found that, in the middle of the night, someone had broken through the roof and jumped inside. I figure it was either someone who had eaten some really bad chile or a spelunker who couldn’t locate any other, nearby dark and dank locations to explore.

If you want to give Chris a comforting hug, as I’ve suggested, do so soon as he’ll be on vacation for the latter part of November. His assistant, Brian Boone, will be filling in while he’s absent.

Brent’s Christmas Trees opens shortly after Thanksgiving. If you can’t find one of your regular farmers market vendors, check with the Information booth as they may have been temporarily relocated. Also, please note that the market will be open on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve which fall this year on Saturdays.

The market’s jack-o-lantern giveaway was again a big success. Here’s one photo I took Saturday morning. Photos from the Lakeshore parade and “Harvest Festival” at Lakeshore Baptist Church are in the same Flickr set.

The food tasting program that featured a half dozen neighborhood restaurants and one bakery proved to be a very popular addition to the market. Look for more of the same beginning next Spring.

I failed to request a copy of the market’s entertainment schedule in a timely manner. Look for it to be posted on the Splash Pad website by the end of next week–if not before.

Odd and Ends

Visit Oakand (nee: the Convention and Visitors Bureau) has just published a glossy visitors guide that features a ton of great photography including lots of images that were entered in their annual photo contest. A digital version is available on this link. Although the tool bar may seem a bit daunting, it’s really quite simple. Just click on the corner to turn the page. I was especially pleased by Page 69 which profiles our Grand Lake Farmers Market and includes a photo I took earlier this year.

Jeffrey Lim from Garden Hortica is working out the decorative elements for the proposed parklet on Lakeshore while other members of the planning group help assemble the application packet that will be submitted to the city late this week. By next month, we should be looking for input on the design and also for volunteers to help with construction and fund raising.

If anyone out there has the necessary experience, Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church is looking for bass and tenor section leaders for their choir. These are paid positions in what has to be one of the most diverse and welcoming congregations in the East Bay. If interested, direct your email to Rev. Jim Hopkins at jim@labcoakland.org.

On this last day of October, I confess I’m glad to see this month come to a close. Over time, I learned to hate Octobers partly due to the passing of a couple members of my immediate family but also due to the extent to which it seems to be a harbinger of disasters. The Loma Prieta Earthquake struck in October of 1989 leaving death and destruction in its quake. Two Octobers later, my mother passed away just days prior to the firestorm that consumed much of the Oakland hills with twenty-five fatalities. Even the Associated Press reported today that “October is somewhat cursed for the stock market — the Crash of 1929, Black Monday in 1987, a slow-motion meltdown in 2008″.

For me, this year’s October losses have been on a far more personal scale but still carry a poignancy that prompts me to share the following tributes and to dedicate this issue of the newsletter in memory of the following who passed away this month:

STEVE JOBS: We purchased an Apple II+ in 1982 or, more accurately, my wife purchased the computer primarily for our older son (who was then 11) despite my protestations that we wait until the product improved and the price came down. At the time, a personal computer in one’s own home was such a novelty, John Eckhouse profiled us in a major piece in the San Francisco Examiner. A confirmed Luddite and technophobe, I barely worked up enough courage to turn the computer on and off and insert the floppy discs but did become highly proficient playing Tax Man–a digital version of Pac Man.

If not for the intuitive simplicity of the Apple computers that were designed under Jobs stewardship, I may never have progressed beyond that point. Instead, like untold millions of people around the globe, I’m using my computer as a planning and organizing tool, as a way to supplement a failing memory, and, for me most importantly, to communicate with others with an ease and efficiency hitherto impossible. In a very concrete fashion, Steve Jobs reshaped our individual lives for the better and ultimately, his genius will have a positive effect on societies worldwide.

REV. FRED SHUTTLESWORTH: I’m including Rev. Shuttlesworth on this list because his passing on October 5 drew far less attention than it deserved. Rev. Martin Luther King was the public face of the Freedom Movement but it was Rev. Shuttleworth who (behind the scenes) lobbied aggressively for direct, non-violent action to bring about an end to the pervasive segregation in the Southern states that survived as a remnant of slavery. For those of you too young to remember the Freedom Rides, sit-ins, voter registration campaigns and the lynchings that inspired Billie Holliday to sing Strange Fruit, I’d urge you to do some background reading beginning perhaps with this profile of Rev. Shuttlesworth on Wikipedia.

HUNTER MCCREARY: We’re giving Hunter McCreary a mulligan and including him on this list although he actually passed away in late September. He was perhaps the last of a dying breed. Those of us who are long-time neighborhood residents remember Hunter as the man behind the counter at Dime and Dollar–a wondrous, variety store in the building that now houses Arizmendi. Dime and Dollar is where you went for just about anything. Needles and thread. Window shades. Pots and pans. Toys and novelties. But most importantly, Dime and Dollar is where you took your kids for their Halloween costumes.

A co-founder and producer of the Piedmont Light Opera Theater, Hunter was a showman at heart and once a year, he arrived at the Lakeshore Easter Parade dressed in a formal top hat with rabbit ears where he presided (with a twinkle in his eye) over the parade, judging and awards presentation. Here’s a photo I took at this year’s Easter Parade that embodies to some extent his whimsical approach to life.

Pamela Drake has posted her own tribute to Hunter on the Lakeshore Avenue website along with an obituary from the San Francisco Chronicle.

If you’d like to comment on any of the above news, please do so on the Grand Lake Neighbors website.

Grand Lake Merchant News

Let’s begin with an update on the two stories that led off my August newsletter. The Good Vibrations application for the double storefront on Lakeshore was approved by the Planning Commission and unless, an appeal is filed, the GV management is now free to finalize their lease and will be undertaking major improvements. The input that Grand Lake neighbors received in the form of comments and a later online survey was roughly two to one in favor of the Good Vibrations application. The comments submitted via email to the Grand Lake Neighbors are available on this link. The comments by way of an online Survey Monkey questionnaire are available here.

The situation with regard to Wingstop is far more convoluted. As you may recall, their application for a “limited service” restaurant was approved over the counter by the Planning Department staff and that’s not about to be rescinded. What the franchisee didn’t realize, however, is that a “limited service” restaurant is not allowed to serve alcohol without a Conditional Use Permit. In addition, since they would be next door to a business that serves alcohol, but not food, they would also need a variance. Apparently, they are prepared to seek both but, if so, it’s going to be a rocky road with plenty of opportunity for public input. The majority of the comments submitted to Grand Lake Neighbors were in opposition to Wingstop and the first 100 participants in the online survey split 26% in favor vs. 48% opposed.

With regard to both of the above issues, I’d like to commend everyone who participated in this discussion. Although many individuals were obviously quite emphatic in their opposition or their support (particularly in the case of Good Vibrations), the dialogue was almost always intelligent and always respectful. Based on recent history, I would have expected nothing less from our Grand Lake neighborhood.

Surprisingly, the extent to which we take such an active interest in the make-up of our commercial district generates a lot of heat from a variety of outside sources. This was the case, most recently, with respect to those of you who opposed Good Vibrations. But, in the past, we’ve been skewered for majority opposition to Out of the Closet, Fatburger and even a mental health clinic for adult parolees that was proposed for the building that’s about to open (within a month or two) as Monkey Forest Road.

For the record, Out of the Closet was problematic for a lot of reasons and instead, we got Silver Moon and Namaste Yoga in a beautifully retrofitted building. I’d take that trade-off any day. As for Fatburger, what killed that deal was their insistence on having a drive-thru window as was also the case with McDonald’s. And yes, I’m equally happy to take the locally-owned Kwik Way (with its extensive menu) in their place.

The Grand Lake District remains one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Oakland thanks in large part to the involvement of people like Caroline Kim who originally invited the Farmers Market here as part of her efforts to prevent commercial development in Splash Pad Park plus all the many Splash Pad Neighborhood Forum members who took such an active role in shaping the character of the revitalized park that would become its home.

I’d also note that while our critics focus on those proposals we’ve fought successfully, we hear nary a peep about our positive accomplishments. Arizmendi is on Lakeshore only because the Greater Mandana Action Committee (which no longer exists) lobbied them to locate here–not Piedmont Avenue. We have a Trader Joe’s because neighbors raised their voices as one and Pat Kernighan twisted some arms to make it happen. Camino is on Grand Avenue because Mary Ellen Navas made a phone call at the opportune moment. Finally, some time soon, we’re going to see $1.2 million in pedestrian and transit improvements to the corner of Lakeshore and Lake Park largely as the result of a process that was initiated by Jerry Cauthen and his Grand Lake Traffic Calming Committee.

Top Dog finally did open on Monday, September 12. I was more than a little annoyed that they scheduled this when I was out of town celebrating my Grand-daughter’s 5th birthday–as well as my brother’s 65th. This spoiled a string of 3 or 4 first day, restaurant openings that I had documented with photos and a full belly. Better late than ever, here’s a link to the photo I took a couple of days later. You’ll notice that I took pains to include the “OPEN” sign above the door. There are also signs on both entry doors thanking Larry Rosen who happens to be one of my neighbors. Larry was a regular at their Pleasant Valley Rd. location and was the first to advise the owner, Irene Riemanne, of the vacancy on Lakeshore.

On my second visit, while I waited for my Top Dog (that I lathered liberally with sauerkraut), I introduced myself to Irene. She said that she was a student at CAL in the 1960′s and used to go Top Dog where she struck up a friendship with one of the two partners and he would later become her husband. When the two businesses partners eventually decided to go their separate ways, they flipped a coin to determine who would keep the business. Irene’s husband won and the rest is history.

Altogether You, the hair salon next to Colonial Donuts, closed after less than a year and a half. The new tenant, PCS Metro is currently doing some interior remodeling and will open shortly. If you’re counting Lakeshore cell phone outlets on your fingers, that’s one entire hand–including your thumb which is most likely in the down position.

Boniere Bakery at 3249 Grand seems to be doing great in their new location. When I stop in, they almost always have customers purchasing croissants or desserts or looking at their wedding/birthday/other special-occasion, cake album. They’re also benefiting from a loyal following. Last week, I spoke to a woman carrying a cake box waiting at the crosswalk opposite the theatre. When I noted that the bakery was a great addition to the neighborhood, she replied that she was (excuse the expression) “really pissed”. It turns out that she lives in Alameda and had to come here to get one of their Kahlua cakes which I haven’t yet tried. I am, however, currently polishing off my second Jamaican Rum Cake which just oozes decadent liquids from its core. For more background information on Boniere’s long history, read the recent article in the Montclarion and other Bay Area News Group publications.

The space that was vacated by Next Level at 3234 Grand has just been leased and will reopen as a Yoga studio after the tenants make some interior improvements. I met the new tenants at the parklet on Grand Avenue on the 17th but don’t have any other details at this time.

Local restaurants in the news this past month included Cafe Romanat and Lin Jia Asian Kitchen.

The former was featured in an August 30 online article published by the Bay Area News Group about the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony which Cafe Romanat observes Saturdays and Sundays from 2-4 P.M. The article includes a slide show with thirteen photos. Also, please note that Cafe Romanat’s home page has a downloadable 15% discount coupon good through December 31.

In his Weekly Favorites column in the Chronicle, Michael Bauer said this about Lin Jia’s dumpling soup:

“What set it apart was the intensely flavored broth, the tender, floppy pork-filled dumplings, shrimp, chunks of shiitake mushrooms and paper-thin slices of bok choy that made eating the soup so much easier and more delicious.”

Lin Jia was also the subject of a very favorable review by Chrissa Ventrelle in an Inside Bay Area column. Speaking of favorable reviews, several weeks ago owner Marcia Lam slipped me a complementary Chang beer (on top of the one I’d already consumed) and then coaxed my always (for good reason) camera-shy self to sit down in front of a video camera. The less than stellar result is posted here on her Facebook page as the first in a series of “Customer Voices”. Just for the record, she skillfully edited out the “senior moment” where I stopped mid-sentence grasping for the right word.

Gary Rizzo at Kwik Way has just introduced a monthly Classic Car Show in the KW parking lot on the fourth Saturday of every month. Here’s one photo and a second that I took this past Saturday. All we need now are carhops on roller skates!

Over on Lakeshore, Namaste has initiated its own, free monthly event–a Sacred Film Festival on the 3rd Friday of every month. On October 21, they will be showing a documentary called “The Human Experience”.

Farmers Market

Brian Boone, an Oakland resident, has taken over Yank Frances’ job and he’s now responsible for all the “heavy lifting” at the farmers market.

The food tasting program hosted by the market management continues to be quite successful. Cafe Romanat’s participation was on September 3 and Boniere Bakery’s this past Saturday. Temoor Noor from Grand Tavern was there giving out samples and gift bags on the 17th but unfortunately, I was otherwise occupied and didn’t get to take photos or sample any of their goodies. There’s a slight possibility of rain this Saturday–so no tastings are scheduled but on October 8, watch for Spettro to be sampling some new menu items. Additional restaurants should be scheduled as the month progresses.

Last month, I predicted that the levying of parking fees would open up the usually, jammed parking lot under the freeway to anyone willing to pay $2 per hour for the privilege. When I did a quick walk-through this past Saturday afternoon, I did, in fact, find about 20 vacant spaces. Some of that fall-off may have been due to problems the first weekend with the kiosks and with confusion about signage. In an email to the Grand Lake Neighbors Yahoo Group, Pat Kernighan noted that those problems had been addressed and pointed out that the monthly permit spaces are reserved for Monday through Friday only.

It’s a bit too early to say for sure what the long-term effects of paid parking will be but, I suspect, some patrons are going to shop elsewhere while others are less likely to hang out; listen to music; and enjoy the social scene–all of which help to make the Grand Lake Market unique.

Speaking of things that make the Grand Lake Market special, on the 29th the management will be repeating an event that they did last year for Halloween. Beginning at roughly 9:00 A.M., they will be giving kids mini pumpkins (as long as they last) and also providing cut fruits and veggies that make for some pretty exotic jack-o-lanterns. Here’s a photo of one such creation from last year. If you get to the market early, you can still catch the Lakeshore Avenue costume parade that starts at 11:00 A.M. See the events calendar below for more details.

Here’s the market’s entertainment calendar for October.

·  October 1: ROSETOWN RAMBLERS

·  October 8: DREW JAMES

·  October 15: ADRIAN WEST TRIO

·  October 22: Mission Gold Jazz Band

·  October 29: DAVID GANS

Events Calendar

The Bandstand at Lake Merritt will be the focal point for a parade celebrating the Centennial of Women’s Suffrage in California beginning this Sunday, Oct. 2 at 11:00 A.M. Oakland is a particularly appropriate venue for this celebration in that, historically, we were the first city in the state to organize a suffrage parade and in that, currently, we boast a woman mayor and a city council in which women hold a clear majority of the seats. Details about the parade and associated festivities (including free ice cream for marchers) are on this link.

On October 9, if the “moon hits your eyes like a big pizza pie”, chances are you’re participating in the 45th Annual Otsukimi Moon Viewing Party in Lakeside Garden Park. This event is sponsored by the Fukuoka Sister City Association and all the important details are posted on their website.

The Splash Pad Farmers Market Advisory Committee chaired by Jerry Barclay meets on Wednesday, October 12 in the Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church Library beginning at 7:00 P.M. This will be the group’s first real opportunity to sit down and talk with new market manager, Chris Blackburn. The main item on the agenda, however, will be the continuing discussion about the deferred maintenance of the park in the areas that are most heavily impacted by the market. The estimates obtained by the city for replacement of the decomposed granite walkway and the gravel pathways were much higher than anticipated and the committee will be looking at other alternatives.

October 15 marks the return of Odette Pollar’s Lakeshore Neighborhood Plant Exchange. This is always a great opportunity to unload surplus plants, seeds, cuttings, pots gardening tools and accessories in exchange for more of the same–only different.

October 15 is also the date for a kid-focused Rummage Sale next door to Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church which benefits the Lakeshore Children’s Center Preschool. Hours are 9:00 A. M. until 3:00 P.M. You’ll find kids clothing and Halloween costumes; books and music; toys, games and sports equipment; household goods; small appliances and kitchenware.

Eric Hughes, the brains and brawn behind the Grand Lake Improvements and Beautification Committee has scheduled a volunteer work day on Grand Avenue for October 16 beginning at 9:00 A.M. in front of the theater.

In an email announcement, Eric said “If you can’t come at 9:00, come anytime and just look for the guy in the straw hat and flashy yellow vest. Volunteers will be working on the triangle across from the theater adjacent to the freeway on ramp; the planters and tree wells on Grand; graffiti on Grand and Lake Park and the sidewalk under the freeway. Eric will supply water, gloves, and tools but you should feel free to bring you own. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The Lakeshore Avenue Business Improvement District and the Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church are hosting their annual Halloween Parade and Children’s Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 29 beginning at 10:00 A.M. Free trick or treat bags, crafts, mini-pumpkins, and refreshments will be provided plus free face painting by Jessica. Children in costume will parade down Lakeshore Avenue at 11, then stay to trick or treat on Lakeshore and Lakepark Avenues or enjoy festivities at the church until 2 PM. Free to all kids and their families! Click on this link for a printable poster.

Odd and Ends

Hopefully you managed to see at least some of our PARK(ing) Day parklets in person on September 17th since my photo set really doesn’t do them justice. This is particularly the case with the gorgeous example in front of Foot Locker that was designed and installed by Jeffrey and David from Garden Hortica. Their hand-painted plywood floor (with signatures and inscriptions from the 17th) will likely be installed as a mural near Trader Joe’s and Walgreen’s. The former, by the way, donated bottled water and the latter, chips. A sheet cake was provided by Boniere Bakery with cookies from Grand Bakery. Plants were loaned by Ace Garden Nursery.

Pamela Drake wrote a comprehensive article about PARK(ing) Day in the Grand Lake district including our plan to build permanent parklets in the neighborhood beginning with one in front of Arizmendi. The city has just issued a Request for Proposals for eight such parklets to be distributed city-wide as a pilot project. If you want to get involved in the Grand Lake planning process, email me for details including a meeting scheduled for October 5.

Grand Lake Merchant News

This month, we’re reporting on two new, Grand Lake businesses that are in the pipeline and both have raised at least some concerns amongst adjacent businesses and/or members of the neighboring community. A few insiders have been hearing for months that Good Vibrations was looking at the long vacant space at 3217-3219 Lakeshore. It’s now official that they’ve signed a lease contingent on getting city approval of a Conditional Use Permit. Here’s the abbreviated text of a message from David Valeska, the City Planner handling their application:

“This application, Use Permit CMV11-142, for the adult business Good Vibrations, is tentatively scheduled before the Planning Commission for 6 pm, Oct. 5, 2011. You may attend and speak if you have comments. Please let me know if there are any issues to discuss at: dvaleska@oaklandnet.com”. Mr Valeska goes on to note that Good Vibrations has recently opened a shop in San Francisco across from Bloomingdales/San Francisco Center and that in Oakland, “they would eliminate the window coverings and make it more like a regular retail store, though without adult merchandise in the most forward windows.”

As for the second proposal, a Wingstop franchise has allegedly signed a 20-year lease for the Szechuan Restaurant on Lake Park which is sandwiched between Caña and Heart and Dagger Saloon. Their permit application in July was apparently approved by a counter clerk in the Planning Department who classified their proposal as a “limited service” as opposed to a “fast food” restaurant. The latter would have required a stiffer review and would have allowed input from the community, Councilmember Kernighan’s office and the Lakeshore Business Improvement District.

To further complicate matters, El Toliver, Inc. (the Wingstop franchisee) has since applied to the Alcoholic Beverage Control District for an on-sale beer and wine license which would, in fact, require a Conditional Use Permit and open the process for community input.

For the present, please direct any comments regarding Good Vibrations to Mr. Valeska and any comments regarding Wingstop to another City Planner, Aubrey Rose at: arose@oaklandnet.com. In addition, I’d highly recommend that we start an online dialogue about both projects using the Grand Lake Neighbors website as a venue. David Flack has been regularly posting this newsletter and you’ll be able to leave comments by clicking on a link at the top and the bottom of the page.

The newest shop on Lakeshore is Collage Clothing Lounge at 3344 Lakeshore (next to Sleep and Beyond). The owners, Amanda Robinson and Massoud Wiggins, specialize in affordable women’s clothing and accessories including a large selection of jewelry and clothing produced by local artisans. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, they have a live DJ. Amanda previously operated a boutique in Chico and she has a wealth of ideas on how to better promote the local business district and the energy to match. Please drop in and give Amanda and Massoud a big welcome.

Last month, I wrote about China Lake Express closing. According to a source at Arizmendi, the space has been leased to another restaurant but exactly what, I haven’t a clue.

Last month, I also wrote about the closing of Good Chemistry Baking at 3249 Grand. That space was very quickly leased by Boniere Bakery which opened today, August 30. I dropped by this morning to take this photo of the owners and another of one their many highly photogenic creations.

Boniere was an Alameda institution–the oldest operating bakery in California with roots going back to 1876 but the owners were forced to move after a hefty raise in their rent. They should be an extremely good fit for the Grand Lake neighborhood since the Grand Lake Retail Advisory Group (GLRAG.org) survey had a dessert bakery near the top of the neighborhood want list. With a menu featuring a vast array of cookies, cakes, danish and croissants (in half a dozen flavors), Boniere should thrive in its new location–particularly since they have a loyal customer base that is thrilled to see them re-open. I talked to one such gentleman this morning who drove down from Castro Valley for one of their Italian Rum cakes made I’m told with the genuine article.

Coincidentally, Dr. Abu Pigott’s Next Level moved for the same reason but in their case, their new location is just up the block at 3354 Grand where he’s sharing a space with Emerson Personal Training. In one of life’s, delightful little ironies, they’re next door to the all too tempting delights offered by Michael Mischer Chocolates–as is Weight Watchers on the opposite side.

Last month’s prediction was that Top Dog should be opening in “a week or so” which turned out to be overly optimistic. This photo which was taken just under a week ago shows that they are extremely close. This afternoon I met someone who has just been hired by Top Dog and he expects to begin work there the first of next week–if not this weekend.

Another business that’s just opened is HM Facial & Foot Massage at 3734 Grand–a space that had been vacant for far too long. It’s just a couple of doors down from Stu Sweetow’s Audio Visual Consultants. Stu had alerted me to the new tenants and kindly introduced me to the owner. She seems quite pleasant and they’ve done a nice job decorating the interior.

If you haven’t checked out “Chi, Wind & Water” at 3227 Lakeshore, I’d highly recommend you do so. They’ve got a great assortment of merchandise including a 750 pound geode that’s been custom-cut for use as a glass-topped coffee table.

A number of recent, Grand Lake store-front improvements are worthy of note:

• ·  Caña has installed full-length, entry doors for their parlor space that will soon be featuring a complete bar menu and live music.
• ·  Namaste has new signage and a new window display (and a new calendar of classes that commence in September).
• ·  Detail work is now underway at Monkey Forest Road and, as this photo may or may not demonstrate, the design, workmanship and materials are all top-notch.
• ·  Awaken Chiropractic is getting a new, raised planter bed as Kendra Burke and her husband, Scott continue to make improvements to their property at 3515 Grand. This is especially worthy of note (and our thanks) since they’ve got their hands literally full already with a new baby in the family.

Russell Moore of Camino and Charlie Hallowell have been hitting the airways of late. Russell was featured in a Foodography video posted on YouTube and he and Charlie were both on a panel that included Alice Waters and Michael Bauer in a KQED Forum entitled “Chez Panisse turns 40″. As an aside, this month’s Monday night special at Camino (Paella) was so well received, it will be featured through September as well.

Marcia Lam’s Lin Jia Asian Kitchen should be joining the publicity parade next week with a feature article in the Oakland Tribune and its sister “Bay Area News” publications. I captured this photo of D. Ross Cameron as he was about to wrap up a photo shoot at Lin Jin early this afternoon.

Farmers Market

The Grand Lake Farmers Market suffered a double-whammy this month. Yank Frances resigned after working at the Grand Lake Market for five years. Chances are you didn’t know him by name but he did all the “dirty work” making sure the johns were clean; the trash cans emptied and all the chairs and tables in place for our enjoyment. Yank was always very laid back and usually he had a big smile but not quite as big as the one you’ll see in this photo that I took on his last day at the market.

By comparison, Brad Burger is a relative newcomer having assumed the market management reins in March of 2010. His resignation comes as a big shock as he had impressed us with his intelligence; his grasp of the big picture in terms of the market’s role in promoting locally-grown produce and better nutrition; his willingness to implement meaningful change and his ability to enforce regulations without being overly authoritarian. During his tenure, the market began a food composting program; substantially reduced the wear and tear on the lawns; initiated the restaurant tastings program and enhanced the market’s educational component by scheduling on a regular basis, Esperanza Pallana’s “Pluck and Feather”, the Master Gardener’s program and StopWaste.org. At this point, Brad’s not sure what he’s doing next but I, for one, think he has an extremely bright future.

Brad’s replacement as Market Manager will be Chris Blackburn. He’s pictured in this photo ceremoniously receiving a set of keys from Brad carrying on a tradition started last year when Brad posed with his predecessor, Nessia Berger. (Editor’s Note: All you rabid, Cal fans please ignore the fact that Chris is wearing an Oregon ducks t-shirt. He really is a good guy and I suspect the devil made him do it). (Editor’s Addendum: If there are any Oregon Ducks fans on this mailing list, please ignore the previous comment as I’m getting old and increasingly intemperate.)

Earlier this year, the Agricultural Institute of Marin instituted on-site farm inspections to ensure that vendors at all their markets were actually producing what they were offering for sale. A couple of months ago, the seafood vendor at Grand Lake had his membership pulled for this reason and more recently, the flower vendor at the west end of the market suffered the same fate. The latter’s replacement is Thomas Farms which is based in Aptos. Over the last couple of weeks, their booth has been crammed with a dazzling array of sunflowers and dahlias. Here’s a close-up of one of the latter.

The food tasting program hosted by the market management in their Information Booth continues to prove its worth. On August 6, Marcia Lam and Lin Jia provided samples in their own inimitable style on serving platters elegantly garnished with Japanese Maple leaves and “butterflied” carrots. Look for Cafe Romanat Ethiopian Restaurant this coming Saturday, September 3 and Grand Tavern on the 10th. The remaining slots for September are yet to be filled but will most likely include Boniere Bakery.

Vesta Flatbread introduced their new, incredibly spiffy food truck a couple of weeks ago. In case you somehow missed it, here’s proof-positive.

I have good and not so good news to report about parking for the farmers market. The good news is that you should find it much easier to find parking under the freeway. The not so good news is that it will cost $2.00 per hour as the city has installed pay stations that will be activated September 6. The decision to begin levying parking fees was made during this last round of budget negotiations. If at all possible walk or ride bikes to the market or, if you’re so inclined, be the one who steps up to the plate and writes a grant application to provide funding for a free neighborhood, Saturday shuttle.

I have one last farmers market photo I want to share. I took it on August 6 after someone remarked that the Grand Lake Market is as good as any in Europe and specifically, in Paris. Coincidentally, this photo shows to good advantage the double all&eacutee of Columnar Maples that Walter Hood used to screen the freeway facade.

Events Calendar

The City of Oakland has designated all of September as Small Business Month. Stu Sweetow informed me that Mayor Quan, in conjunction with this promotion, will be holding a press briefing on Grand at Ikaros, Walden Pond, Michael Mischer Chocolates and Ford’s Fine Furniture this Thursday afternoon. In addition, a neighborhood mixer will be held at Milano’s Restaurant at the end of the month. For more details, visit the Oakland Small Biz website.

As I noted last month, the Grand Lake District will be celebrating International PARK(ing) Day on September 17. Latest plans are for a temporary parklet in front of the vacant China Lake Express Restaurant with musicians scheduled to play throughout the day in front of Arizmendi. As I mentioned last week this parklet is being constructed and installed by Garden Hortica. Here’s a photo of the not-completed plywood floor. A second parklet will be on Grand in the street in front of Monkey Forest Road with furnishings provided by Urban Furniture plus treats courtesy of Boniere and Grand Bakeries and most likely, some live music as well. Ace Garden Nursery (which is invariably supportive of community projects) has agreed to loan trees and/or shrubs for both locations.

The proposed mini golf course now consists of but one hole–a 6’8″ Par 3, Duck-leg to the left, right and center that made its public debut at last Saturday’s farmers market. Unless there is a sudden upwelling of creative enthusiasm and volunteerism, we’re going to settle for that and it’s most likely going to end up as part of the Grand Avenue parklet.

On the 17th, we’ll need pick-up trucks to move furniture, plants and other materials. We’ll also need help with set-up and tear-down and assistance staffing the parklets throughout the day. If you can help with any of the above on Lakeshore, please email Sara Erickson (the Property Manager for Sansome-Pacific) at sara.r.erickson@gmail.com. To volunteer for Grand Avenue, please email me directly at ken@katzpjs.com. To follow and participate in the discussions about PARK(ing) Day and the permanent parklets that are to follow, please check out the Parklet blog that Sara just initiated.

October 15 marks the return of Odette Pollar’s Lakeshore Neighborhood Plant Exchange. This is always a great opportunity to unload plants and cuttings no longer needed in exchange for the perfect plant in the perfect location.

Odd and Ends

Barbara Newcomb, who was the inspiration behind the proposed restoration of the Cleveland Cascade and Oakland’s 2010 Mother of the Year, is now 88 years-old and still digging weeds on an impossibly steep hillside. A couple of weeks ago, she received some well-deserved recognition in the form of a Dave Newhouse column.

Sorry for the delay in getting out the July Newsletter. Last month’s edition (all 3800 words) left me all tuckered out and once I did recover, I found my plate even fuller than usual. Better late than ever, here’s the latest in news from our Grand Lake neighborhood.

Grand Lake Merchant News

This month, the usually favorable news in our neighborhood commercial district is tempered with a sudden flurry of business closings.

• Perhaps the most shocking development was the closure of the Flip Side–a restaurant in the Adams Burgers spot that never opened despite many, many months of construction. I’m told they did some marvelous interior work but rumor has it that the owners had second thoughts about their business plan. In any case, the space is now essentially vacant awaiting offers from other prospective restauranteurs of which there will be no shortage.
• Good Chemistry Baking was also one of the recent casualties. The sign in their window cited “family issues (which) require us to relocate”. Jane and Rick are really thoughtful, hard-working people and they will be sorely missed.
• The Lounge–the nail shop/boutique a couple of doors up the street was also recently shuttered. This property is owned by Richard Weinstein whom I’ve applauded in the past–most recently for bringing Silver Moon and Namaste Yoga to the beautifully revamped Baby Gap building. Richard has a great track record for attracting quality tenants–so keep your fingers crossed.
• Across the street, Next Level’s demise came as a big surprise. Dr. Abu Pigott actually started his personal training business on Lakeshore at Mandana in 1997 and moved to Grand in 2003. At this point, I have no information about a possible relocation.
• An even bigger surprise was the closure of China Lake Express which had totally revamped the space before moving in several years ago with a low-priced Chinese steam table. I suspect they were the victim of changing demographics as diners in the Grand Lake District seem less and less concerned about price and more about quality and freshness.

Now for the good news, Top Dog somehow manages to defy the aforementioned, price/quality dichotomy–offering a good quality product at a very reasonable price. Judging by the photo I took July 21 and by the comments of the contractor who was installing cabinetry, Top Dog should be doing just that within the next week or so.

The storefront that was last occupied by Ibota (at 3227A Lakeshore) is scheduled to open August 3 as a rock shop called “Chi, Wind & Water” that will also offer unique gift items. I stopped by earlier this evening to welcome them to the neighborhood and took this photo of Shirleen, the owner. She’s installed a really attractive window display that features two large buddhas and a massive geode and she’s turned the low ceilings into a plus by creating a subdued-light, cave-like showroom lined with display cases. I predict that they will do exceedingly well. A 15% discount on purchases of $25 or more which is good through the end of September is available on this link.

The newest tenant on Grand Avenue (at the corner of Elwood) is the East Bay Five Element Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Clinic. Owner Yasmin Spencer is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist who left a clinic in Arcata for the Bay Area. When I asked why, she replied “I craved to be involved in a community that was bustling with art, culture, dance and more opportunities to learn and grow.” Smart lady, huh!

The Boot and Shoe Service Cafe opened several weeks ago serving coffees, teas, frittata, granola and desserts. In addition, during the evening hours, it serves as a casual space where restaurant patrons can have a drink while waiting for their tables. The final stage of construction will involve major improvements to the back patio. For more details about the Cafe, I’d highly recommend a delightful review posted on KQED’s Bay Area Bites. After reading that, check out “A Sweet Spoonful”–the website of the author (and neighborhood resident), Meg Gordon.

One business closure sign gave me a few un-EASY moments until I read it all the way through and realized that Easy is only closed temporarily. When they reopen, you’ll find a more upscale interior and they will be serving their “Farmers Market Cocktails” seven days a week.

The signage in front of Ford’s Fine Furniture had the same, anxiety producing effect after my wife came home and told me that Ford’s was going out of business. As it turns out, Corella is having a store-wide sale with everything marked down 20 to 70 per cent but isn’t going anywhere–particularly since Monkey Forest Road promises to give a big boost to retail traffic on that section of Grand.

Speaking of which, here’s my most recent photo of the Monkey Forest Road interior taken as they were hanging glass entry doors. Lead architect, Josh Larson told me that a large tree would be installed directly beneath the skylight but I heard from another source that, in addition, water is going to cascade down the wall behind it.

Last month, I predicted that the design and quality of workmanship would “knock your socks off”. If the alleged water feature does materialize, perhaps you can surreptitiously dip your toes in a cooling pool–or more likely, not.

Various Grand Lake entities were recognized in the “Best Of” edition of Oakland Magazine including:

• Colonial Donuts for the Freshest Donuts
• Sadly, (since they’re now closed) Good Chemistry Baking for Best Gluten-Free Baking
• Walden Pond Books as the Best Bookstore for Bookworms
• Grand Lake Ace–The Most Helpful Hardware Store
• The Nail Shop (3326 Grand) for Best Nail Shop
• Grand Lake Farmers Market labeled the Friendliest Farmers Market
• Grand Lake Theatre for the Best Neon Sign
• Crocker Highlands as the Best Public School
• Andrea Turner (585 Mandana above Lin Jia) as Best Massage Therapist

While The Nail Shop got the nod from Oakland Magazine, an article in the Montclarion waxed poetic on behalf of Alice Ly’s Natural Nails Plus at 3527B Grand.

Kwik Way is still in the news with, most recently, a very favorable review in the East Bay Express. The newest offerings on a continuously expanding menu include barbecued ribs, a corn salad, a grilled chicken sandwich with cole slaw and a turkey meat loaf sandwich with grilled onions.

Lin Jia has added many more items to their menu as well. Worthy of special note is “Marty’s Favorite” which is not (as it turns out) named after regular customer, Martin Manley–nor, more importantly (I said in a huff) is it named after me. Marty’s Favorite consists of fried won tons in the shape of small cups that are filled with a scrumptious mixture of flounder and fresh seasonal veggies including corn, edamame, carrots and peppers. The other item that will make you sit up and take notice is Marcia’s version of KFC–that’s fried chicken as it’s made in Korea, not Kentucky. Her version is made from free range chicken served with lettuce wraps to mute a rather fiery sauce.

Certified Nutritionist, Pat Lennox at Lakeshore Natural Foods was briefly in the spotlight during a report on KTVU about companies that violate Organic labeling laws. I think she pushed the standards of decency a bit when she noted that many products that are advertised on TV as organic are “full of crap”–but those standards aren’t what they used to be in the “good old days”.

Although they’re not technically Grand Lake businesses, we’ll give a nod to two local businesses with strong neighborhood connections that were just separately profiled in the July 25 Oakland Tribune.

A Dave Newhouse column on that date talked about the trials and tribulations suffered by Jim Copes. In the early 1990′s, Jim had a shop on Lakeshore that specialized in athletic apparel as well as one in the Eastmont Mall. After eight burglaries and one robbery at the Lakeshore location, he declared bankruptcy but is now trying to earn a living with his own line of t-shirts. You may have seen him recently set up at the 76 station or in front of the post office.

The other report by Angela Woodall is about Oaklandish or, more specifically, about their new downtown location that houses their factory, warehouse and retail outlet.

Farmers Market

Regrettably, the Farmers Market lost one of its most highly valued vendors this past month. PANoRAMA Baking had been at the market for nearly eight years. They initially earned a special place in my heart when they donated (without being asked) a pile of goodies for the lighting ceremony for the Names in Lights. Over the years, Eric kept that special place in my heart with regular donations for our volunteer workdays. More importantly, they earned a special relationship with many of our taste buds thanks to a staggering array of products–all of exceptionally fine quality.

Although I haven’t been able to reach PANoRAMA, from what I’ve heard they were the victims of bureaucratic incompetence. After applying for a renewal of their Alameda County health certificate, they waited and waited and waited some more without explanation. Eventually, they folded up their canopy and went home.

Oakland-based, Starter Bakery which is now occupying the PANoRAMA space has a hard act to follow, but they do have stellar credentials. The wholesale clients for their sweet and savory breads and pastries include Pizzaiolo and Peaberry’s at Market Hall. Here’s a photo I took on July 23.

Another new vendor is Say Hay Farms which hails from Woodland. They have a very attractive booth and are currently featuring organically-certified, potatoes, farm-fresh eggs, zucchini and pepperoncini.

Just in time for summer (such as it is this year) Straus Family Creamery is now offering organic ice cream in seven different flavors. That Brown Sugar Banana looked particularly tempting.

The new food sampling program that gives neighborhood restaurants an opportunity to connect with market patrons (the majority of whom don’t live in the immediate neighborhood) has been extremely well received.

The first participant on July 9 was Yayu Restaurant which got a very warm reception from folks getting unexpected treats. Co-owner Andualem Bekele was there providing a generous selection of menu items.

The following week, Maurice Darwish from Mezze came to distribute samples and also to publicize a special Prix Fixe dinner in honor of their 11th Anniversary. The Eggplant Tapenade and Hummus were big hits–but even more so, the Chocolate Croissant Pudding which this youngster zeroed in on.

Yesterday, Ikaros came bearing a dazzling array of Greek specialties–everything from Dolmades to Spinach Pie to Hummus. Here’s a photo from yesterday’s sampling.

Next week, August 6, look for Lin Jia’s Marcia Lam offering some delectable items including Marty (and Ken’s) Favorite. On the 13th, the Grand Tavern will take its turn with some of the unique items on their restaurant menu. If you’re hankering for one of their signature, vintage cocktails, however, you’ll have to venture up Grand.

• Esperanza Pallana was recently the subject of a wonderful video that was shot by Whole Foods as part of a series they’re doing on healthy eating. The video is one of several on Esperanza’s Pluck and Feather website and it’s also available on this site. Esperanza has one more canning demonstration scheduled for the market on August 20.

Events Calendar

The San Francisco Mime Troupe will be performing “2012–The Musical” at Lakeside Park this Wednesday and Thursday, August 3 and 4. Music begins at 6:30 and the show starts at 7:00.

The 11th Annual Art & Soul Festival downtown is August 20 and 21.

The Oakland Pride Celebration of Family takes place September 4.

Odd and Ends

In last month’s newsletter, I wrote at length about the article in the East Bay Express about Bay Area farmers markets. Jerry Barclay has just announced that the upcoming meeting of the Splash Pad Farmers Market Advisory Committee (this Wednesday at 7:00 P.M. in the Lakeshore Baptist Church library) will focus on two topics. The first being the questions raised in the EBX article about the vendor application process and who benefits from the markets’ presence. The other agenda item will provide an update on the discussions / negotiations between the City and the Agricultural Institute of Marin pertaining to the market’s impact on the park and plans for mitigation.

Last month’s Fiber Festival was 50% larger than the inaugural event and better attended. At least one vendor came all the way from San Luis Obispo. Here’s one of ten photos that I posted on Flickr that I thought captured some of the spirit of the occasion. Congratulations to organizers Lou Grantham and Bente Petersen for organizing this event and thanks for choosing our little neighborhood park as your venue.

Last month, I mentioned that Roger Helm was on the city layoff list and sure enough, he was issued a pink slip several weeks ago which prompted a lengthy letter to the Oakland Tribune Editor. Happily Roger has been rehired in another position but not necessarily as a gardener and most definitely not at Lakeside Park where he was a huge asset.

Before submitting my comments to the Tribune and later to Oakland Local, I exchanged emails with a number of park supporters. We all agreed that park maintenance is currently a disaster but each had different ideas as to how the problems could be alleviated, if not solved.

At this point, all I could hope for is that we begin a dialogue to talk about the deterioration of our city’s infrastructure–not just our parks and medians but also our roads and sidewalks and then we need to work with City Hall to implement major improvements.

Please contribute to this dialogue by leaving your comments on the Grand Lake Neighbors website after David Flack kindly posts this month’s newsletter.

The Oaklandish Innovators Awards were announced in April. Winners included some of my favorite institutions–Oakland Local, the First Friday Art Murmur and the Agricultural Institute of Marin which coordinates the Grand Lake Farmers Market. Congratulations to all the winners and thanks to Oaklandish for continuing their tradition of giving back to the community.

“PARK(ing) Day is an annual, worldwide event that invites city dwellers everywhere to transform metered parking spots into temporary parks for the public good.” To take advantage of all the farmers market pedestrian traffic on Saturdays, we’re instead observing PARK(ing) Day on the 17th with two or maybe three or more temporary parklets on Grand and Lakeshore. With parking on Saturdays already severely limited, we will be avoiding use of metered parking spaces.

The most ambitious parklet is slated for the dead space in front of the vacant China Lake Express. It will be installed by David Le and Jeffrey Lim from Garden Hortica. If they manage to pull off this design, it’s going to the best in the East Bay–maybe better than any other in the Bay Area and beyond.

When I saw his design, I accused Jeffrey of being a bit “crazy” but he’s not. What he and David want to do is to raise the bar and get folks thinking about what’s really possible when we do later sit down to finalize the details for the permanent parklet we want to build in front of Arizmendi followed by others in the Grand Lake district.

A second temporary parklet for the 17th is scheduled for Grand Avenue somewhere in the vicinity of Urban Furniture. Their Director, Tracey Weaver, has agreed to provide an assortment of chairs and couches that we’ll move into the street along with some flowers and/or shrubbery.

Although I accused Jeffrey of being a bit crazy, maybe that appellation would be more appropriate applied to yours truly. My idea for Parklet #3 is for a mini-miniature golf course in the street in front of Noah’s and Starbucks. I’d settle for four holes–all par 3.

WARNING: Here comes the part where I appeal for volunteers to help with what should turn out to be a spectacularly fun day. On the 17th, we’ll need pick-up trucks to move furniture, plants and other materials. We’ll need others to help with set-up and tear-down. We’ll also need volunteers to staff the parklets; explain their purpose and talk about the permanent installations that are to follow beginning with Arizmendi. If you can help with any of the above on Lakeshore, please email Sara Erickson (the Property Manager for Sansome-Pacific) at sara.r.erickson@gmail.com.

If you can help with building the miniature golf course sometime in early September or specifically want to help out with the parklet on Grand Avenue, please email me directly at ken@katzpjs.com.

This past month was an eventful one that had at its centerpiece, an end-of-the-world prophecy that failed to materialize. It’s just as well since, as always, I have a lot of good news to report that would have otherwise been rendered quite extraneous. Regrettably, one of our valued subscribers won’t be reading this newsletter. Each month, our broadcast email to her elicits this response: “Hello, I am away until January 1, 3000 and am unable to read your message.” I’d thought about removing her as a subscriber but ultimately decided I’d just wait her out.

Speaking of broadcast email, that service is now being provided to us by JSX Inc. which specializes in high performance web applications–primarily for non-profits and small businesses. While our younger son, Ben is known in some circles as the father of our four year-old grand-daughter, he is also the founder and CEO of JSX.

Just for the record, I’ve confessed on these pages to the difficulties I have with html, with my new computer, with new technology in general. Let me also confess that Ben takes after his Mom. She actually liked math!

Grand Lake Merchant News

The latest neighborhood restaurant opening took place on June 13 without the same kind of fanfare that accompanied other, recent openings. That may be because of its off-the-beaten-path location on Santa Clara, but it’s a wonderful addition to the up-and-coming Grand Avenue commercial district. Cafe Romanat is now serving authentic Ethiopian cuisine in the space that was previously occupied by Mimosa Cafe . To create a larger, light-filled dining area, they’ve expanded into the adjacent storefront and, as demonstrated by this photo, it’s a marvelous transition.

When I stopped by this past Friday afternoon, I fortuitously walked in on a traditional coffee-making ceremony with beans being roasted in a skillet over an electric hot plate with incense curling up to the ceiling. When I came back with my camera in the early evening, the ceremony had concluded but one of the members of the staff posed for this photo as she poured a cup of coffee. Adam, my older, world-traveling son spent six months in Ethiopia and judging by a comparison of his photo and mine, the Cafe Romanat version looks rather authentic.

Owner, Elyas Kefela told me they’d be doing at least two coffee-making ceremonies each week–tentatively on Saturdays and Sundays between 4 and 6 p.m. For more details (including the restaurant menu), visit their exceedingly well-done website. The menu has extensive vegetarian and meat options. On my first visit, I feasted on a very generous serving of Yebeg Tibs–cubed lamb sauteed with onions, garlic, tomatoes and jalapeno peppers flavored with herbs and spices. The entree was accompanied by lentils and a salad and, at $10.95, seemed quite reasonable.

The Kwik Way opening on Sunday, May 22 was well attended and a lot of fun. I took a number of photos that I’ve posted on Flickr in a new Kwik Way set including this one of Gary Rizzo and Diane Violette–the wife of one of the original Kwik Way owners. You can also view Pamela Drake’s video of the day’s festivities which is posted on YouTube.

Pamela’s video may set the mood for an equally short, 1979 video that’s in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC. It features Commander Cody singing “Triple Cheese Burger, Side Order of Fries” with Kwik Way as the backdrop.

If you watch the Commander Cody video carefully, you’ll recognize that the old and new Kwik Ways are entirely different animals (in a literal sense) and to further accentuate those differences, the new menu keeps expanding. One of the newest items is the rotisserie chicken which is quite tasty and reasonably priced at $10.50 for a whole bird or $6.00 for a half. In addition, as a nod to some of the disappointed old-timers, Gary has re-introduced fried prawns that can be purchased in a box alongside fries. Incidentally, for dessert, Annette Wood raves about their bread pudding.

The weekly email blurb from Yelp on May 25 had this to say about Caña: “If your stomach’s looking to dance to a different tune, then sway your hips on over to the new casa Cubana, Caña. The Café wakes me up with some of the best tasting coffee I’ve had, and the calle ocho steak sandwich comes with caramelized onions, cheese, and a chimichurri-like sauce on flaky bread. Ay dios mio! “

The two veteran businesses that I chose to profile this month are owned and operated by two of my favorite Grand Lake business people–Jane Hong at Lakeshore Natural Foods and Elida Scola at Galleria Scola.

Jane has been on Lakeshore for 25 years and added a second location in Montclair just four years ago. When asked, she said that customers keep coming back because they want to eat healthier and be healthier and know that they can count on products that are either organic or free of genetically modified organisms. LNF stocks a wide variety of juices, cereals, bulk grains, desserts, frozen foods, etc.

They also have cosmetics, sun screens, dental care products and entire shelves devoted to products specifically formulated for kids. Their biggest seller is, however, nutritional supplements which are offered in a wide variety of formulations from a number of different producers.

Their biggest asset may, however, be the staff’s breadth of knowledge beginning with Jane but also including Eric Benjamin who’s been there for years as has Pat Lennox who has a doctorate in nutrition.

Jane also volunteered that she wanted to be sure to thank the neighborhood for their support over the years and the one thing she’s enjoyed particularly is watching neighborhood kids grow up and later return as adults.

Elida Scola’s tenure on Grand Avenue has Jane’s on Lakeshore beat by a couple of years. She graduated from what is now Glasboro State with a BA in Arts Education and soon after ended up in San Francisco. In need of a job, she apprenticed for two years at the Miter Box frame shop and then struck out on her own purchasing an existing frame shop on Grand but on the opposite side of the block below Mandana. When her rent doubled eight years later, she purchased the ground floor commercial space at the present location with assistance from the Small Business Administration.

The rest you might say is history but it’s not. While custom framing and matting are still the mainstays of her business, it’s continued to evolve. The gallery’s inventory now includes select pieces of antique furniture, antique frames, tasteful accessories and vintage art. The latter includes some 300 framed etchings–mostly from the Golden Age of etching from the 1890′s through the 1930′s. They’ve also just added another line that features images from Oakland’s past that Elida’s reproduced as giclee art prints which sell for $195. In this photo, she’s shown holding one such print–a 1920′s Port of Oakland poster.

Elida is particularly excited about another new endeavor. Her staff members are now repairing antique frames and paintings as well as three-dimensional art work. One such repair is illustrated on the Galleria Scola web site.

The storefront at 3227A Lakeshore that formerly housed Ibota has a new tenant that will be offering gems, stones and jewelry. I don’t have any other details at this time.

A couple of doors further up Lakeshore, this photo illustrates the final transformation of the facade on the building that’s shared by Namaste Yoga and Silver Moon. Property owner Richard Weinstein’s architect added a horizontal stainless band across the front as well as something that resembles a traditional sign blade that’s accented with stainless steel bands and a flag pole that will fly a yet to be designed pennant.

This facade is far different than the original but it’s fully in keeping with the Art Deco lines of the building and makes a far more dramatic statement. Kudos once again to Richard for his strong commitment to restoring and maintaining his commercial properties. He sets a very high bar for other property owners in the Grand Lake district.

Apparently up to that challenge are Chris Cooper and Arnel Alcordo who are the owners of the highly anticipated Monkey Forest Road at 3265 Grand. For new readers (or those with short memories), their shop will feature furniture and artwork imported primarily from Bali plus a tropical-themed coffee bar offering Balinese coffee.

Larson Shores Architects whose office is a stone’s throw (or more correctly a stone’s drop) from this project has come up with a design that will ultimately knock your socks off.

I’ve been regularly peeking my head in and occasionally taking photos. This one was taken during a concrete pour for the new flooring. I’ve seen a lot of concrete work and actually done my share but never anything this ambitious. Stainless steel strips were embedded flush with the surface to demarcate areas within the showroom. Each of those strips was meticulously leveled and anchored with shovelfuls of hand-mixed concrete.

The same kind of craftsmanship is evident elsewhere including the framework for a vaulted ceiling and mezzanine that features joints assembled at crazy angles. Josh Larson (who is the lead architect on this project) has posted additional photos on his Facebook page.

Returning to Lakeshore and Namaste Yoga, Kimberly alerted me to a new sliding scale community class for those with financial constraints that meets Fridays at 6:00 p.m. The recommended scale is $10-20 but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. She also said that eventually they will be adding Friday evening events such as lectures, musical events and movies. Stay tuned for further developments.

Farmers Market

The biggest news regarding the market came from an article in the East Bay Express. Although the subject was East Bay farmers markets in general, the focus was clearly on Grand Lake. This is probably due to its reputation as the largest and most successful of all the local markets.

While the article does raise some valid questions, I found the reporting lacking in adequate fact checking and outreach. The most glaring example of the former: the author says that the Grand Lake Market opened in 2006 after the Montclair and Fruitvale Markets had done so. In actuality, the market started operating under the freeway in 1999 and moved into the renovated park in October of 2003.

In terms of outreach, the only individual from the surrounding Grand Lake businesses that was interviewed was Allen Michaan who is quoted as saying, “It’s really hurting the businesses that are paying rent, paying taxes”. His solution: move the market downtown.

While I recognize that some individual businesses are suffering (particularly the restaurants on Grand), every indication is that 75% of the neighborhood businesses are benefiting from all the increased pedestrian traffic on Saturdays.

Moreover, the restored park and the Farmers Market are playing a key role in the district’s revitalization. For proof positive, look across the street at the businesses on Lake Park. Three years ago, it was a waste land that people avoided–particularly after night had fallen. Today, there’s not a single vacancy and the impact has been much the same up and down Grand and Lakeshore.

Some of the problems cited in the article are solvable–and others are not. All are on the table for further discussion. If you’d like to be part of this process, send an email to Jerry Barclay and ask to be added to the notification list for future meetings of the Splash Pad Farmers Market Advisory Committee.

In other market news:

• The late rains and (until this week) cool Spring temperatures have played havoc in extremely diverse ways. For starters, the Brewer Middle School band concert scheduled for the market on June 4 was rained out. That was a big disappointment as the concert was supposed to be a major fundraiser as well as an opportunity for some very talented kids to strut their stuff in front of a big audience.
• Growers have been suffering as well. Cherries were hard hit with a good portion of the crop suffering from water damage forcing pickers to laboriously separate the good from the bad. Harvests have also been delayed as a result of the cool temperatures. Lucero Farms which would have ordinarily returned to the market weeks ago is still awaiting maturation of their first strawberries. Good news is that we have been promised fresh corn on the cob starting this Saturday. If I get up early (which I won’t), I’d be the first in line.
• This weekend will be the last for Kassenhoff Growers until Peggy and Helen return in September with a brand new inventory of Fall and Winter plants.
• Little Lady Bug Bakery is new to the market with a nice selection of pies and cookies. The former includes blackberry, strawberry rhubarb, apple and pecan. All feature locally-grown produce purchased at this or other markets.
• Esperanza Pallana from Pluck & Feather will continue to do the market every other Saturday–alternating with the Alameda County Master Gardeners program. But, in addition, she is scheduled to do three canning demonstrations beginning this Saturday (June 25) and again on July 23 and August 20. From what I understand, the demonstrations will take place throughout the day. Upon arrival at the market, you can inquire at the Info Booth about the schedule.
• Browsing through photos of Oakland posted on Flickr, I came across this very nice photo that Jed Sullivan (an Adams Point resident) took at the Grand Lake Market.

Events Calendar

The Grand Lake Entertainment calendar is now up to date through the end of June.

Haddon Hill resident, David Gans is a regular shopper and frequent performer at the Grand Lake Market but you’ll look for him in vain this Saturday. Instead, he and his Beatles Jam Band (Rubber Souldiers) will be across the bay at the Ferry Building performing on Sedge Thomson’s West Coast Live. It’s likely too late to get tickets, but the show will be broadcast on KALW 91.7 FM beginning at 10:00 a.m.

If you don’t get to watch the Rubber Souldiers live on West Coast Live, you can do so later that day at the Mashups Summer Music Series in Children’s Fairyland. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

The East Oakland Sports Center on Edes at 94th Ave. is celebrating its opening on June 30 at 4:00 p.m. One of the distinguishing features of the building’s exterior is a 30 foot high by 200 feet wide mural that was painted by Daniel Galvez and Jos Sances. Daniel was one of the principal artists responsible for the Grand Performance mural on the Grand Avenue underpass. He was also one of the six members of the Splash Pad Design Committee that made the recommendations that were incorporated into the city’s Request for Proposals.

Just in case you need a reminder, the Second Annual Fiber (and Textile) Festival in Splash Pad Park is coming up on Sunday, July 10th from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

National Night Out is Tuesday, August 2 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. This is a really wonderful opportunity to get better acquainted with your neighbors and build the kind of cohesiveness that makes for a safer neighborhood. You can register online at www2.oaklandnet.com/nno or phone 510 238-3091.

Odd and Ends

If you’re one of Oaklandish’s many devoted fans, you’ll appreciate this (slightly edited) press release from Director Angela Tsay:

“After 10 years of urban games, art events, farmers markets, and street fairs, Oaklandish is opening its first retail store and community space at 1444 Broadway in the heart of downtown Oakland. Starting in July, Oaklandish is making good on our belief that the rebirth of Oakland is well underway, and this city has enough local love to sustain real vitality downtown. In a century-old spirit of civic pride, Oaklandish will be hand-printing all gear in the heart of the city, just steps from City Hall. Proceeds from all sales will continue to provide financial, artistic, and media resources to support innovative community groups that exemplify the spirit of creativity and progress in this oceanside city. The space will act as the center of Oaklandish’s community involvement; a place for artists and nonprofit partners to meet and represent everything strange and spectacular about life on the sunny side of the bay.”

Latest word is that the storefront location may open as early as July 1 but only if the required permits are approved in time.

Last month, I bewailed the extent to which the powers that be place such a low priority on public spaces including parks and street medians and pointed to the example of gardener, Roger Helm who is on the layoff list for the third time in twenty-two years. To put an exclamation point on the value of his services, here’s a photo of yet another water feature he just helped to restore in Lakeside Gardens.

On the other side of the gardens near the west entrance gate, a Protea garden has just been installed. The plants were all donated by Garden Hortica and the massive pots by Pacific Home and Garden. The pots which ordinarily retail for up to $1,000 are all damaged but still functional and a perfect fit for this section of the gardens that has been designated as a “recycling area”.

I‘m not the only one who has been complaining about the book donation bins prompting Thrift Recycling Management to pull all the damning evidence from their website while Safeway issued disclaimers. According to this article in the Contra Costa Times, none of the books donated at the Safeway locations will be sold–an arrangement that TRM’s charitable arm describes as “unique to Northern California”. Please note, however, that they will continue to pulp books they deem unusable and that’s typically 50 to 75% of what they receive. Finally, I’m told that this arrangement is for six months only. Apparently, TRM is hoping the tempest will blow over during the interim. Don’t bet on it. For no other reason, the book donation bins are recognized as a threat to the revenue stream of local non-profits–especially those that resell books to benefit public libraries and, as we’ve been seeing for the past several weeks, you mess with the library system at your own peril.

Plans for a permanent parklet in front of Arizmendi are proceeding nicely and there is also some discussion about later constructing additional parklets on both Lakeshore and Grand. In addition, Walk Oakland Bike Oakland is organizing an event called Park Day for September 17 and 18 that will feature temporary parklets throughout the city. I’m hoping that we can organize at least two of the “pop-ups” for the 17th to take advantage of all the pedestrian traffic day on market day. If you’d like to help with planning, hauling, or construction of the temporary and/or permanent installations, please email me at info@splashpad.org and I’ll get you on the contact list.

Murals are popping up all over which is befitting a city that has one of the highest concentrations of artists in the country. The latest plans were announced by the Lakeshore Homeowners Association. They’ve contracted with muralist Dan Fontes to enhance the wall between Grosvenor Place and the PG & E substation. His mural will replicate two early sepia photos including one of the railroad trestle that gives Trestle Glen its name plus two pages from a Lakeshore Homes sales brochure circa 1915. Funding for this project came from PG & E and from area residents. They’re hoping painting gets underway before the rainy season.

Unless you were “Camping Out” in a bomb shelter trying to avoid Harold Camping’s Apocalypse, you already know about the historic torpedo port from the Battleship Maine that was stolen from Lakeside Park and later recovered. To refresh your memory, here’s the report from the Oakland Tribune but there’s far more to this story that’s yet to be told.

Assistance in foiling the bad guys came from many different sources beginning with the local press which did a great job publicizing the theft. Outraged citizens voluntarily called area salvage yards to make sure they’d heard the news–much as Oakland Police investigators were already doing. One of the key factors in the recovery was this photograph that turned up with a Google search. The photo was taken and posted online years ago by Harry Yagligian–a long-time Mandana Avenue resident who used to operate the Original Kaspar’s Hot Dog on Telegraph at Shattuck. When the bad guys drove into the Schnitzer Steel yard, Marcelo Gonzalez (the non-ferrous recycling manager) took one look and knew it was the piece in the photograph. While the 1200 pound relic was being weighed, he called the cops.

The torpedo port is now safely stored in the city’s corporation yard while discussions are ongoing about its future disposition. Most likely, it will be restored and moved across the street to the Veteran’s Building. Meanwhile, there’s yet another twist to this story. Last week, sorting through some of the paper memorabilia that I’ve accumulated during my twenty-five plus years in the antiques business, I found this image of a cannon captured by Admiral Dewey in Manila that was then mounted in front of Oakland’s old city hall.

I emailed this info to Ed Clausen (a past President of the Alameda County Historical Society and a retired Oakland Fire Fighter) and he responded saying he’d check it out. This is what he found:

“What I’ve learned about the Dewey Cannon, so far, is that it is not the one at the Oakland Museum; that one is “Old Squatter”, the cannon that was used to settle land disputes and keep the bad guys from docking at the Broadway Wharf. According to the files at the Oakland History Room, the Dewey Cannon was still in City Hall Park on July 4th, 1904 when some local hooligans packed it with gunpowder and fired it off, breaking store windows in four directions. The City Council passed a resolution on September 11, 1907 providing for it’s removal to Independence Square in East Oakland; this coincided with Mayor Mott’s plan for the revamping of the Square, including changing the name to Independence Park (later San Antonio). I could find nothing more about its whereabouts. I drove around San Antonio this afternoon, but didn’t see evidence of a cannon. The search goes on.”

If, by chance, you have a clue about the cannon’s present whereabouts, please let Ed know. It would look great paired with the torpedo port from the Battleship Maine.

Splash Pad Newsletter
May 19, 2011

Grand Lake Merchant News

Last month, I hypothesized that the Kwik Way opening was already old news and that the public’s attention was likely on the wane. That conclusion was apparently a bit premature as hits on my photo of Kwik Way’s neon sign have continued to spiral upwards and are now atop the heap with 434 views and counting.

Just in case interest in Kwik Way was, in fact, beginning to flag, owner Gary Rizzo has just informed me of a formal Grand Opening Celebration this Sunday, May 22 with an 11:00 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony. Scissors will be wielded by Pat Kernighan and Diane Violette, the wife of the original Kwik Way owner. Between 11:00 a.m. and Noon, Kwik Way will be offering free samples of new menu items as well as free coffee and, if they arrive in time, free tee shirts. Be forewarned, if you bring your camera, I’m going to be there elbowing my way in for the perfect vantage point for the ribbon-cutting–not to mention the free samples.

Not surprisingly, the Kwik Way resurrection has generated a ton of positive press. The best of the lot, I think, was this report in the Contra Costa Times.

While we’re still on the Kwik Way subject, let me add that the property owner’s son, Charles Hahn (in full tuxedo) has just taken a bride. Congratulations, Charlie!

Two doors up, Caña has updated their website which now includes a dinner menu and a teaser for their adjacent parlor which will include an upscale full-bar and lounge with loads of entertainment. By the way, a source that shall remain anonymous told me that their coconut flan is fabulous while simultaneously bemoaning the fact that his wife ate all but a couple of bites before he arrived home. Who was that? My lips are sealed.

Top Dog has been garnering lots of attention as well. The photo I shared last month of what was essentially a hole in the floor has had an astounding 318 hits to date. Here’s another photo taken earlier this week that shows substantial progress being made.

Two other photos that I featured in last month’s newsletter have generated far more interest than I would have expected. The one showing the first set of replacement news racks has had 158 views and the other of the new Sprint location minus the Busy Body sign–289. In my mind, that’s a definite indication that people in this community do care about aesthetics and that they are paying attention.

As much as possible, I’ve been crediting those folks who have been key players in neighborhood improvement efforts but thus far, have neglected to mention Jeffrey Feldman–an architect and long-time neighborhood resident. For the past couple of years, he’s been serving as an informal liaison between us and the city’s building department trying to make sure that construction plans in the commercial district conform to code requirements and following up to ensure that the work that’s done conforms to the approved plans. As you walk by Sprint and admire their new sign, whisper your thanks to Jeffrey along with everyone one else who has assisted in one way or the other.

As long as I’m handing out kudos, how about a big round of applause for Eric Hughes and the latest in a long string of accomplishments? Between you and me, Eric is like a bulldog that won’t let go. Although they severely tested Eric’s mettle and patience, Clear Channel has finally renovated two small billboards on Grand Avenue adjacent to The Grand Tavern and two more directly across the street. Here’s a before photo and voilà, the after.

Eric is Chair of the Grand Lake Improvements Committee. If you want to offer your assistance in a future project, email him at hughesearthur@gmail.com. You can also keep track of what’s on his agenda via the new Grand Lake Neighbors Facebook page.

Lee’s Discount Florist has been at 3215 Grand Avenue for just under twenty years. This week, the Lee sisters (Cara and Amy) are moving two doors up to 3222–a space that’s just about twice the size. Here’s a photo I took Wednesday of Cara in front of their new location.

Two other, Grand-Lake old-timers are the subject of this month’s profiles. E. G. Yang owns and operates General Computer Systems which has had a presence on Grand Avenue for twenty years. After outgrowing two smaller spaces up beyond Mandana, E.G. settled in his current location at 3226 Grand in 1995.

He and his staff do anything and everything related to computers but they specialize in the assembly and sales of computer systems and accessories. They also provide installation and servicing. In their in-store shop, they repair computers and install software including networking. If you need cables, added memory, a new computer or whatever, they either have it in stock or will be glad to order it for you. They do also have a small inventory of used computers and will occasionally buy laptops for resale.

Juniper Tree which has been on Lakeshore for approximately eight years doesn’t really meet my “old-timer” criteria but since it now specializes in vintage clothing and shoes, we’re going to give it extra credit. Susan Lemmon opened her first bath and body shop in Berkeley. When she moved to Lakeshore, soaps, oils, lotions, etc. were still her main focus. Gradually, however, the shop has evolved to encompass jewelry, clothing and shoes. According to the camera-shy store manager, the jewelry is mostly new and includes the work of several, talented local artisans. On the other hand, he estimates that 80% of the clothes and shoes are vintage or pre-owned. This photo taken at the entrance shows a very few of the vintage pieces currently in stock. Although it occupies far less space, Juniper Tree does still offer a wide selection of bath and body products including a line of fragrances that Susan personally compounds and bottles.

As a personal aside, this is one of my favorite shops in the Grand Lake District. It always has spectacular window displays (currently featuring slinky silk Chinese outfits with colorful umbrellas) and inside, it’s like an ever-changing art exhibit with just about everything for sale. On Halloween and Christmas, Susan goes a bit berserk with every nook and cranny filled with all kinds of outrageous and not so outrageous gewgaws.

Farmers Market

First and foremost, we’re very pleased to have Market Manager, Brad Burger back after several month’s absence–particularly since a number of ideas that had been on the back burner are about to come to fruition. Just before “press time”, I gave him a call and he shared all the latest news.

I was particularly pleased to hear that they are poised to initiate a program that will allow food purveyors in the Grand Lake District to do cooking demonstrations and/or pass out free samples as a way of reaching out to the Farmers Market customers who come from throughout the Bay Area but don’t necessarily venture up Grand and Lakeshore. Brad said that they are also working with Esperanza Pallana to provide monthly canning demonstrations through the summer. Esperanza will continue to staff her Pluck & Feather booth every other week as will the knowledgable folks from Alameda County’s Master Gardener program.

In other market news:

• · Patrick’s Famous Pies is leaving the market in favor of the summer fair circuit and Couture Farms is gone until February as the asparagus season winds down for them.
• · Patrick’s space will be filled by Pizza Politana which will be bringing its wood-fired brick oven directly to the market. All the ingredients are organic and mostly purchased from other farmers market vendors including County Line and Iacopi.
• · Speaking of which, Iacopi Farms actually debuted at the market several weeks ago. What sets them apart from all the other vendors is their stock of dried beans. Although beans and peas in all shapes and varieties are their specialty, they also offer an assortment of seasonal vegetables including at present, artichokes.
• · Lazo Ranch which is based in Watsonville should also be making their initial appearance at the market in the next couple of weeks. They will be filling a bit of a vacuum created by the departure of Halog Farms. Lazo is a non-organic farm offering a broad selection of seasonal vegetables at a lower price point.
• · In addition to the new vendors, quite a few are returning after their winter break. They include Triple Delight Blueberries, Balakian Farms, Blossom Bluff and Feather River.
• · Let me conclude this farmers market segment with a confession. After four or five years of taking photos at the market, I’d become somewhat jaded. But several weeks ago, on an overcast day with the perfect light, I took a batch of photos that graphically reminded me of the extent to which the market continuously offers “eye candy” as well as gustatory delights. Here’s a composite photo that I shot that morning.

Events Calendar

The Grand Lake Entertainment calendar is now up to date through the end of June.

For my money, the single biggest, upcoming event will be a June 4th fundraising concert at the Farmers Market featuring 150 youngsters from Brewer Middle School plus a number of guest artists. The latter includes a group called “Hip for Squares” which consists of Americorps volunteers working in Oakland public schools.

According to Brewer’s Music Director, Zack Pitt-Smith, three concert bands will be performing from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. He described the advanced concert band and the advanced jazz band as “award-winning ensembles”. The latter will also be performing Monday, May 23 at Yoshi’s. Tickets for the evening show are still available. Price is $15 plus a one-drink minimum. All the proceeds from Yoshi’s ticket sales and from passing the hat at the Farmers Market will benefit the music program helping to pay for equipment, field trips and their mentoring program.

One of the many benefits associated with living in the East Bay is the wealth of artistic talent that surrounds us. Two weekends each year, five or six hundred of those artists and craftspeople literally throw open their doors and invite the general public to come visit their studios, their galleries and sometimes their living spaces. To sweeten the pot, most also tempt us with wine and cheese and crackers and grapes and occasionally more exotic fare. More details are posted on the ProArts website.

A couple of those artists live right here in the neighborhood and since they’re also loyal subscribers, I’ve offered to give them a little plug. Lorrie Fink is participating in the Open Studios tour on June 4 and 5 only from 11:00 a.m until 6:00 p.m. Lorrie’s studio space is behind her home at 718 Santa Ray just off Lakeshore. Jane Norling and Judy Levit share a work space at 3298 Lakeshore upstairs with Ken Pitts’ Martial Arts studio. Jane and Judy will be open all four days from 11:00 a.m until 6:00 p.m.

Another artist (Daniel San Souci who lives around the corner from me on Calmar) isn’t participating in the Open Studios tours but does have a brand new website which was designed by Anca Mosoiu.

The First Friday Art Murmur enjoys it’s annual Saturday incarnation this Saturday (May 21) from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in conjunction with the big art fair in San Francisco. Details are available on this link.

Art and Music in the Lakeside Gardens is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 4 and 5. This free event will include an art show and sale (in conjunction with the Pro Arts Open Studio tour that weekend) plus musicians, gardening demonstrations, children’s activities, food, a poetry fest, and a silent auction. For more information, visit the Gardens at Lake Merritt website.

If you were fortunate enough to attend last year’s First Annual Fiber (and Textile) Festival in Splash Pad Park, you don’t need encouragement to put the date for this year’s edition in your calendar. The organizers (Lou Grantham and Bente Petersen) have just announced that the free festival has been scheduled for Sunday, July 10th from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Lou tells me that they’re going to be adding music and additional vendors–all of whom are listed on the Fiberfest website. They are also expanding on one of last year’s most popular features–a “make and take” booth where the uninitiated can try their hand at spinning, weaving, knitting, crochet, felting, and quilting.

Odd and Ends

Representatives from AC Transit will be at the Farmers Market this Saturday (May 21) from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. promoting the 26 bus line that runs from upper Lakeshore to downtown Oakland and then onto Emeryville. Stop by their table and they’ll happily provide new riders with a Clipper Card good for the 26 line from May 23 until June 5. Click on this link for more details.

I‘ve just talked to Jerry Barclay (Chair of the Splash Pad/Farmers Market Advisory Committee) and we’ve decided to schedule a volunteer work day to take advantage of the damp soil and sunny skies anticipated for this weekend while also capitalizing on the expected big turnout for Kwik Way’s formal Grand Opening on Sunday. After partaking of the free coffee and food samples, how about joining us across the street around 11:30 or 12:00. We’ve acquired a nice selection of California Natives that have to go into the ground and will be doing some weeding and pruning as time permits. Some tools will be available but we can always use additional weeding implements.

Speaking about parks that need more TLC than we as volunteers can provide, I could write a couple thousand words regarding Oakland’s current budget mess and the proposed solutions but, for the present, I can sum it up in one paragraph.

Roger Helm, the City of Oakland gardener, who is chiefly responsible for the recent restoration, at minimal cost, of two major water features (the Lakeside Garden Creek and the McElroy Fountain) is on the bottom of the seniority ladder and on top of the layoff list. Although Roger has worked for the City for twenty-two years, the first eleven were as a “temporary” employee so the city wouldn’t have to pay benefits and, in addition, he’s already been laid off twice previously. Although Roger’s recent efforts are quite special, he’s still emblematic of an entire department that has long suffered because City Hall seems to deem parks, street medians and other public spaces as a low priority. In my opinion, that’s an incredibly short-sighted perspective and any additional cuts to the ranks of employees who actually go out and get their hands dirty is a monumental travesty.

Since we’re currently in the midst of the Amgen Tour of California, this article in Oakland Magazine about the United Healthcare Cycling team was quite timely. If you weren’t already aware of it, the team is based in Grand Avenue’s Cycle Sport bike shop which is owned by Thierry Attias.

If you shop at the Safeway on Grand Avenue, you’ve probably noticed the big blue collection bin just to the right of the entrance. The banner across the top says “Books for Charity” and the contact information across the bottom is for a non-profit called “The Reading Tree”. An online search turned up information indicating that the boxes are actually owned and serviced by a for-profit company called Thrift Recycling Management which may have as many as 4,500 such boxes all across the country. They’re now making a major push into California and the box here in the neighborhood is one of one-hundred and fifty heading for Safeway parking lots in the northern part of the state. Last year’s revenue for TRM was $27 million. In their own press releases, they claim to turn a minimum of 50% of the books donated into pulp. They sell approximately 25% online and a very small portion of the proceeds ends up in the hands of The Reading Tree with whom they have an incestuous relationship.

My advice is to keep your donated books in Oakland where they will benefit the local community. There are plenty of better options including the Bookmark Bookstore which benefits the Oakland Library or the Museum White Elephant Sale or any of the big thrift shops that provide valuable services to the homeless and the unemployed. Other options right here in the neighborhood include the East Bay Children’s Book Project (chaired by my wife) or right on Grand Avenue, Urban Furniture.

Last month, I wrote about a proposal for an in-street parklet in front of Arizmendi. Apparently, some of our subscribers were unable to open the plans that were drawn up by local architect, David Bolaños. Here’s a more reliable link.

I can also now report that city staffers are unabashedly enthused about the parklet concept. According to this article in SFBlog.org, the powers that be are putting the permitting process on the fast track and the first parklets may be installed as early as this Fall. If you’d like to participate in the planning and (maybe) construction process for the Lakeshore parklet, please contact David (dbolas42@att.net) and/or myself (info@splashpad.org). We’d be especially interested in talking to anyone with construction experience–particularly if they can help finalize plan details or have access to a portable table saw and other heavy equipment.

The 24th Annual Lakeshore Easter Parade and Spring Children’s Fair was unusually well attended and the derbies continue to demonstrate more and more creativity. Here’s a photo of two youngsters who’ve substantially raised the bar for next year. Congratulations and thanks to the Lakeshore BID and to Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church for organizing this fun event.