Montclair is never short on stories, from big cultural comebacks to everyday challenges that hit close to home. In this week’s episode of The Montclair Pod, Mike Schreiber and Farnoosh Torabi cover a mix of breaking news, local updates, and a dash of humor—from safety warnings on our streets to new places to gather for coffee, movies, and art.
Porter Place Car Theft: A Risky Chase Ends in Arrest
When a Montclair resident spotted someone trying to steal their new Hyundai, instinct took over, and they gave chase. The confrontation escalated quickly when the suspect threatened to shoot. Police later made an arrest, but the hosts emphasize an essential lesson: call 911 first. No car is worth risking your life.
Paper Plane Coffee Expands After Years of Renovation
One of Montclair’s most beloved coffee shops has officially spread its wings. Paper Plane’s Claremont Avenue space has been renovated and connected to its Fullerton location. The addition will host private events on weekdays and be open for seating and online orders on weekends. Farnoosh stopped by to preview the new space and calls it “well worth the wait.”
Bellevue Theater Revival: Montclair Film Brings Movies Back
After years of vacancy, the Bellevue Theater is alive again. Montclair Film has transformed the space with three updated theaters, a stage for live events, and even a nonprofit liquor license. The new carpeting may not win design awards, but the return of movies to Bellevue Avenue has the town buzzing. The official reopening is on October 18, just in time for the Montclair Film Festival.
World Cup Ticket Sales Begin—But With a Catch
With MetLife Stadium set to host matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fans rushed to sign up for tickets. But there’s a twist: only Visa cardholders are eligible for the presale lottery, and prices range from $60 nosebleeds to $6,700 luxury seats.
Back-to-School Frustrations: Communication Gaps Persist
Beyond the headlines, parents know the school year always comes with a learning curve. Farnoosh vents about Montclair schools’ communication lapses—buried PDFs, last-minute notices, and supply lists hidden on Facebook groups. The deeper issue? Equity. Families without time, resources, or tech savvy are disproportionately left behind.
Plus:
- White Lotus in Montclair? The hosts imagine HBO filming a season at The George Hotel.
- A new Italian spot, Italiana by Zod, is opening soon in the former Fiamella space.
- Original Bob Ross paintings are on display at Lackawanna Station during the Jazz Festival.
- The Montclair Town Garage Sale returns Sept. 20, benefiting the Human Needs Food Pantr
In case you missed it…
- Farnoosh and Mike Eat food: Oso Felipe, a New-ish Mexican Dining Spot Near Walnut Street
- Montclair’s $20M School Deficit Explained
- “Ask Our Agent”: Love It or List It? Montclair Style
- Montclair Film Fest Goes Big: Bellevue Reopening with the Sound of Music, Spike & Colbert, and a Clooney Opener
- Montclair Schools Face $19.6M Deficit: Loan and/or Tax Hike on the Horizon