Slurry Seals and Turkey Meals
When I found out there were going to be slurry seals on Central Avenue, I asked my publisher and human companion (HC), “Where are they going to swim?” He busted up laughing so hard he was rolling over on the floor. I was more than a bit confused by his reaction and had this urge to scratch his stomach.
Once he recovered, he explained that slurry seal was not an animal at all, but rather a mixture of water, asphalt emulsion, very small crushed rocks, and additives that is spread over an existing asphalt pavement surface to prolong the life of the road.
I spent the better part of my walks this week along Central Avenue documenting the process. Check out the grinding, sweeping, oiling, and applying the slurry process captured in the video.
With all this work going on, and the Art and Wine faire happening this weekend, where and when one could park on the street was challenging.
Even this city employee found it imperative to park in the red zone in front of Starbucks to pick up what I’m guessing was a Dragon Fruit Summer Cooler drink.
My front yard provided a great place for this turkey mom and her fledglings to enjoy a meal. There was so much scratching and milling around going on when my HC opened the front door for my afternoon walk, I freaked out and almost pulled him down the front steps.
Since I am reporting on activities in my yard, I might as well update everyone on the rogue tomato plant that popped up in the planting strip in front of my house. It is now eight feet tall and about six feet wide with a support structure made of steel. I hope it’s strong enough
And, this week, my HC enjoyed the first “fruits” of all this labor. Pun intended.
While we were hanging out on Central Avenue, I spotted a beautiful monarch butterfly. I couldn’t get a picture, but this guy was spending a lot of time around this purple flower. (Editor’s note: it’s called Buddleja davidii or ‘nanho purple’ and is a butterfly attractor.)
To close out this week’s report, I want to remind all the readers about my “walk by” offer to take one of my walks by your former Alameda home and grab a picture. Just email my HC at [email protected]. He will schedule a walk and plan my route.
If you haven’t been to the Art and Wine faire that is taking place this weekend on Park Street yet, you still have time to enjoy the free music, great vendors, and some delicious food on a Sunday afternoon.
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 and videos by Jeff Cambra.
