Stash's Palaver

LAST MONTH I passed along the news that a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter would land on the fantail of the USS Iowa, now in Richmond, on March 17th. That event didn’t occur. West County Times columnist Chris Treadway checked into the matter and reports that the transfer of ownership of the battleship from the federal government to the ship’s foundation was incomplete at that time, plus the miserable weather would have scratched the plan anyway.

Chris says the copter landing will now likely be on April 28th. That should be the Iowa’s final weekend docked in Richmond after which the famous battleship will be towed to San Pedro, her new home. Keep an eye on his newspaper column for updates.

CONSTRUCTION OF A STEEL TRELLIS is underway at El Cerrito Natural Grocery over the driveway to support new solar panels. The trellis connects the grocery store with their new Annex, formerly a paint store. EC Natural’s Annex is planned to open January 2013 and will offer customers prepared foods, coffee, juice, wine and beer. Watch for plans to be posted in the window of the Annex.

ON THE MOVE, but not too far, is The UPS Store at El Cerrito Plaza. Currently at 3020 El Cerrito Plaza, the new location will be 3060, a few doors to the west. An effective date of April 30th was supplied to me by a box renter at the store as the opening day of the new location; subject to change, of course.

ROUND-UP TIME. As in the past, local businesses have an opportunity to purchase discounted display advertising space in the June issue of Contra Costa Marketplace magazine, a Chamber of Commerce member, and get their message to readers throughout West County. What’s different this year is that the Chamber leadership decided not to sponsor this long-time feature. Nevertheless, I like it, and feel it has value for local business. Sales representative Michelle Harrington will be in El Cerrito promoting the Round-Up. To take advantage of this special advertising section, call her at (510) 223-1800.

HUNGRY? If you stop at Elevation 66 try the sausage, mustard späetzle, with sauerkraut and curry-miso along with a pint of their locally brewed beers. In a word: outstanding.

FOURTH OF JULY at Cerrito Vista Park is one of the most popular events in El Cerrito and lots of fun. Considering the thousands of people who turn out every year, it could also be a great way to promote your business. Generous sponsors make the fair possible. Contact the City of El Cerrito, Christopher Jones, Acting Recreation Director, at (510) 559-7005 for information on becoming a sponsor or vendor.

AUTOMOBILE GURU MARTY KALISKI is inviting ladies to “Women, Wheels and Waffles” from 10 a.m. until noon on Saturday, April 28th. WWW is an educational event where women can learn about automobiles and see what goes on behind the shop doors. Coffee, mimosas, juice and waffles will be served. Marty’s Motors is loccated at 10929 San Pablo Avenue in El Cerrito. Don’t waffle, sign up now by calling Marty at (510) 235-6000. It’s free, too.