Berkeley's Gourmet Ghetto on YouTube

Berkeley may be known for its political activism, historically significant architecture and year-round gorgeous weather, but I've always felt the world should also know about our serious foodie leanings.

I've discovered a little gem on YouTube that proves someone else feels the same way. We are now on the YouTube map with a short video all about the excellent restaurants just outside my office door. Dangerously close, I say. We all know about Alice Waters' revolutionary kitchen at Chez Panisse, but consider as an alternative a slice of pizza from the Cheese Board Collective. Best enjoyed on the grass median in the middle of the road in front of the collective, this is the true food of the gods and a real North Berkeley neighborhood experience.

We Want Richmond View!

Just a quick note about what's happening in Richmond View this week: the home at 1826 Ralston Ave is receiving 7 offers today. Is the market cooling off? Not there. This property gained alot of attention in the past few weeks because it was a classic mid-century design in need of easy updating, and everyone loves a moderately priced easy fixer.

How to explain other moderatly priced properties in easy move-in condition lingering on the market? This is where the market feels unpredictable.

Realtor News

**This just in from the California Assoiciation of Realtors**

FED TO ESTABLISH NEW OVERSIGHT PANEL OF SUBPRIME LENDERS

The Federal Reserve Board (FRB) announced July 17 the launch of a new pilot program aimed at strengthening federal and state oversight of subprime mortgage lender practices, as well as the brokers who originate these loans.

The collaborative state/federal program, slated to begin in 2008, will include oversight from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Office of Thrift Supervision, The Federal Trade Commission, and state agencies represented by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors and the American Association of Residential Mortgage Regulators.

According to the FRB, the oversight committee members will conduct regular, targeted compliance reviews of selected non-depository lenders with significant subprime mortgage operations, share information with one another about their reviews and investigations, and make joint recommendations for corrections.

True Love!

I attended a wedding reception yesterday and today I'm feeling all warm and lovey-dovey because of it. This party was held outdoors at Kennedy Grove in Contra Costa County. Pretty pretty pretty! It was part potluck picnic, part catered lunch, plus there was croquet and petanque to keep us entertained.

I'm thinking about other ideal places one could get married, celebrate a marriage, or propose a marriage outdoors around the East Bay... so many! Stuck for ideas? Here are few:

Wildcat Canyon (anywhere on a hiking trail would be a sweet proposal moment)
Berkeley Marina (all-purpose group picnic facilities with a view of S.F. Bay, hotel for out-of-town guests)
The Brazilian Room at Tilden Park (big lawn, a little fancy; a popular wedding spot)
Temescal Beach House (at the lake!)

Any other ideas for us? Feel free to contribute yours!