MONTCLARION: February 17, 2012

Recently, I reported that Red Oak Realty was making a bid to move into the long-vacant Wachovia Bank building at 6450 Moraga Ave. in Montclair. It turns out not everyone is onboard with the plan.

Longtime merchant David Sarber sees it as going down the wrong path for the Montclair Village Association.

“I know of three real estate entities that will spread ground floor if the eventual OK is given to Red Oak,” he says. “Rents will skyrocket, and if you think that there is not enough retail now, just wait and see what will happen.” Continue reading →

MONTCLARION: Feb 3, 2012

Wildflowers peeking through the forest floor, birds happily building their nests — you’d think spring had already sprung in the Oakland hills.

That’s why I had to get away.

As you read this column, I’m in Minnesota waiting for snowflakes to fall from the steel gray sky. It’s supposed to be 28 today with flurries. I couldn’t be more excited. Continue reading →

MONTCLARION: January 26, 2011

It was fun while it lasted. After two trailblazing months, the pop-up shop Montclair Collective has closed for retooling.

Co-owner Reenie Raschke says November and December were “wonderful” for the collective of craftsmen and women. “Great response — total love-fest,” she says, adding that what started with a few local artisans turned into a place where neighbors came down with their pottery, photography and even musical instruments. Continue reading →

MONTCLARION: January 20, 2012

Cupid, take note. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, I’ve discovered a new way to revitalize a relationship. Extreme sports.

What I mean is extreme interest in sports. It’s no revelation that most men love ballgames — to the point where they scream at the TV, causing neighbors to wonder if someone is being bludgeoned. As partners, we ply them with chicken wings and chips in the hopes that their mouths will be too full to cheer at earsplitting decibels. Continue reading →

MONTCLARION: January 13, 2012

News of Oakland’s ranking in the top five places to visit in 2012 is “blowing up Facebook,” according to my college-aged daughter.

A lot of young people are commenting on a New York Times article, which cites Oakland’s “excellent restaurants, exciting music venues and thriving night life” as reasons to visit. It’s nice to see our young people taking pride in Oakland. It’s their infusion of talent that helps create positive buzz for our city. Continue reading →