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Like other bars, the Stork Club has been shuttered for weeks due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But now the Oakland bar/live music venue, which is one Bay Area’s oldest nightlife spots, has announced that it won’t be reopening its doors even after government officials deem that it’s OK to do so.
“Well folks … that’s IT … end of an era & another nail in the coffin of Rock ‘n Roll,” the club said in a post on its Facebook page.
However, reports said the club’s manager told the Berkeleyside website the club will seek to re-open at a different location with cheaper rent.
No official reason was given as to the closure, but it’s probably safe to say that the financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic factored in — as it has with the loss of so many other bars and restaurants.
The news of the bar’s closing drew sad reactions from longtime customers.
“Argh I hate this, such a great place to play and hang,” John Dylan Mulhausen posted.
“A lot of good nights there, sorry to see it go,” John Deal posted.
“This is soul crushing, I’m so sorry!” Jessica Brown posted.
Many referenced the great loss this is for the Bay Area music scene.
“The CBGB’s of the Bay Area.” posted Robert John Tucker, comparing the Stork to the famous New York hot spot that helped launch the careers of Patti Smith, Blondie, the Talking Heads, Television and other all-time great rock acts. “If I were a billionaire, the Stork Club would never go away.”
“I’m so sorry! A touchstone to Oakland rock n roll and music community,” posted Lisa McElroy.
“Played many a show at the Stork,” posted Ben Boyden. “I’ll miss that dirty dive.”
Missing @BottleRockNapa? #same. So, let's pass the time watching new concert series (re)LIVE BottleRock, featuring memorable performances from past festivals. (P.S. Don't miss great @muse show from 2018) @livenationsf https://t.co/XaQwAVkFQn
— Jim Harrington (@jimthecritic) May 20, 2020
Drive-in theaters land a starring role in COVID-19 movie-going era. https://t.co/VEyPDTgKGG
— Jim Harrington (@jimthecritic) May 15, 2020
Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan give $100K to eight of their favorite restaurants. What are their favorite restaurants? https://t.co/eH41Lb30cM
— Jim Harrington (@jimthecritic) May 13, 2020
