Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda for February 18, 2024
Last Wednesday was Valentine’s Day, and while there wasn’t much going on to commemorate the day, I do want to give a big “high four” to Tucker over on Morton Street, whose family always comes through with some type of holiday display.
There is also a house on Central Avenue between Broadway and High Street that does a great job of celebrating special days with a front yard and window display.
It had been a while since I had visited the north shore of our little island community. So, I headed up Grand Street to see what was going on. I started by checking out the new apartment complex on Clement Avenue called the Launch. This complex has lots of amenities including a workout room, big bar and community area, large pool, and access to the public shoreline. They even have a service that will take care of your feline, but no mention about canines. Hmm.
From there, I headed north to the Grand Marina and the greenbelt area which features some nice public art from the City.
As I was walking along the shore, I noticed the various bands of vegetation that are caused by what I assume is the changing water levels due to tidal action. The very lowest band had brown and green algae-like plants, while the next band had more structured plants of yellow green. The highest ground had what looked like succulents and grasses… Nature is so interesting.
My human companion decided that he wanted a coffee, so we headed down to Mosely’s Café for an oatmilk latte-thing for him, and a puppacino for yours truly. This cafe allows dogs and has a great view of the Estuary and marinas. There’s always something available to read, like the latest FAAS Guide to everything pet friendly in Alameda.
This place also sells swag, candles, and local honey, and they have the largest collection of hot sauces I have ever seen.
The hula guy on the counter cracked me up.
Last week, I saw my shadow on GroundDOG day, so we are in for another six weeks of winter which was definitely apparent when it hailed. What’s crazy was the sun came out right after it hail stopped!
However, there were some signs that spring may be coming sooner than I predicted. The magnolias have started blooming, which has always been a sign that spring is on its way.
I walk by 1619 Central Avenue several times a day. This Thursday, I saw the crew unloading big pallets of sheetrock onto the second floor landing. This is a great sign of the progress being made to restore this grand old structure.
Finally, I want to send out my condolences to all the 49er fans who were denied that Super Bowl win for a second time. Fortunately, the team is young, and there is a great chance they will be in the playoffs next season.
The weatherperson says rain all next week. Check the Alameda Post weather page to see the current local conditions. Here’s hoping you can stay dry. Please drive carefully—human companions, canines, and turkeys will appreciate your efforts.
Mouf, Roving Reporter
Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda
Mouf and his human companion can be reached via [email protected]. Their stories are collected at AlamedaPost.com/Jeff-Cambra/. All photos by Jeff Cambra.
