The Rave Box cleared to open

Claremont shop to have grand opening after the city denied an appeal of its business license

After multiple delays, a new rave clothing store in Claremont will have its grand opening for customers this weekend.

The Rave Box, located at 141 Harvard Ave., will open its doors after an appeal of its business license was denied by the city Monday.

News of the failed appeal was welcomed by shop owners Janelle Huerta, 33, and Steve Morales, 28, who have been stuck in limbo since arriving in town in January.

“We are both excited to finally be approved,” Huerta said by text Thursday afternoon. “We have had such a great response from the city residents as well.”

Multiple posts on The Rave Box’s Instagram show customers are eager to stop by the store. Strangers who got word of the appeal also have shown their support.

The store is scheduled to open at 1 p.m. today. Five nearby business owners in the Village filed the appeal March 1 citing concerns that the clothing store was an adult business and did not fit with the character of the shopping district.

Owners from the Bunny Gunner Gallery, Claremont Village Eatery, Studio C Gallery, Square I Gallery, Artist Trait and Bert and Rocky’s Cream Co. filed the appeal. The group has decided against taking its appeal to the City Council.

In an emailed statement Thursday afternoon, John Nuelle, the legal representative of the appellants, said his clients would “not be further appealing this matter and will support the city’s decision.”

“We welcome any business that cares about Claremont’s wellbeing while demonstrating integrity and respect,” a statement from the appellants reads.

“We embrace our unique shops and innovative products and services that make the Claremont Village a destination for visitors and a great place to live, shop and work.”