Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda for September 15, 2024

For Sale

As I walk around Alameda, I come across many yard and garage sale signs. Some are very effective… and others not so much.

Take the example of the single piece of spiral bound paper written with a dried-out Sharpie or the sign that blends into the background on Park Street where drivers are focused (or should be focused) on the road.

So, for those of you that are contemplating holding one of these sales, I have included a few examples of signs that might improve your “bottom line.”

Keeping with the “for sale” topic, I have had my eye on the house located at the corner of Lafayette Street and Central Avenue for the past month. I first noticed it when the occupants had a huge yard sale with a lot of bigger household items rather than the usual clothing and tchotchkes. Shortly after, I saw the movers packing up the family. Humm . Was this a rental turnover or an owner selling the property? My curiosity was piqued.

Over the following month, it became clear that this house was being prepared to be sold. The interior and exterior got a new paint job, and the landscaping was redone to give the place more curb appeal. I do hope someone will water the new plants in the rock-hard soil of the planting strip. There is no irrigation in this area, which means hand watering. I am hoping this will be a quick sale for the sake of these plants.

Next came the staging folks that brought in the furniture and home décor stuff. I could tell right away that it was staging because there were no clothes or boxes labeled “kitchen” or “bedroom #2” in the truck. Finally, this past Thursday, the sign went up in the front yard and now all the lights in the house are on 24/7. Why do agents do that? Seems like a waste of energy to me.

I made it to Park Street twice this week. The first was to get a puppuccino at Starbucks. I walked past the crew that was painting the lines for the green bike paths along Central Avenue. I stopped to ask how long it takes for the paint to dry, figuring they would say it takes hours. The foreman said, “15 to 20 minutes.” Wow, that was amazing! I asked what kind of paint? He explained that it really isn’t traditional paint, but rather a two-part tinted epoxy (like glue) that actually “dries” by getting hard via a chemical reaction. Darn, I love science!

My second trip to Park Street was to accompany my human companion (HC) to Hobnob to pick up a late dinner. I want to give a big shoutout to the folks at Burma Superstar for the outstanding job they have done on their parklet renovation. The lighting design, natural wood, and pony wall decorations create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Although much simpler in design, concept, and cost, the old Danish Interiors awning is now decorated with these lanterns creating an equally festive feel on the sidewalk.

Finally, for those interested in historic restoration, you need to check out the work at the old AT&T building on Central Avenue. The ornate cement entry staircase is now complete and is an awesome example of skilled craftsmanship. The recently installed lantern style light posts will have the simulated candlelight bulbs. High four to the folks making this all happen!

I am continuing my countdown to Halloween and soliciting ideas for my costume. I have 46 days to figure it out.

💀🎃👿👹👺🤡

Mouf, Roving Reporter
Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda

Mouf and his human companion can be reached via jeffcambraalameda@gmail.com . Their stories are collected at AlamedaPost.com/Jeff-Cambra/ . All photos and videos by Jeff Cambra.

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