I meant to post this as soon as I got the email:
Three years ago, I posted this on my blog:
Early pandemic motivational flyers posted on the streets. To be honest, I do not miss this. Even though it’s such a positive sign, it only reminds me of being couped up in my apartment. The only thing I miss about the early pandemic days was there was no traffic. That was glorious. Other than that- nothing.
And in current events:
NOOOOO!!
This is my local coffee shop. I have been going here for years. Shoot, this Starbucks was in this neighborhood long before I was. It has weathered the storm while other businesses folded especially during the pandemic. During my tenure here in the Grand Lake neighborhood since 2007, I watched the tea shop on the corner become a Korean fusion restaurant, while the burger joint became….well another burger joint, and the smoothie shop become a gourmet popcorn shop then back to a smoothie shop. Yeah, okay, it’s not that bad. But Starbucks? Them closing will mess with the entire ecosystem of the neighborhood. It’s next to Noah’s Bagels! It’s always next to Noah’s Bagels. They’re a package deal! You get your bagel, and then when the cashier asks you if you want a coffee, you say no, and then go next door! It’s a ritual. And now it’s going away. Okay, I know there’s another Starbucks around the corner over on Grand Avenue across from the movie theater, but I don’t like that one as much. It’s smaller. And yes, I know I can walk to Peet’s but, I dunno. I don’t like their simple syrup as much. And besides, where is Eric, the friendly homeless guy, supposed to panhandle? Starbucks was HIS SPOT. Although lately there have been complaints about him …
“Hey, Theresa!”
“Hey Eric.”
“Why don’t you hook me up with a pancake breakfast?”
(Yeah, okay, he was getting a little out of hand, but he’s harmless)
Everything’s changing!
I jest of course.
Speaking of changing….
I am working on a new solo piece about how the SF Bay Area has changed since my family first moved here. We go way back.
I am 99% sure the pic on the left is at Lake Merritt. I know those street lights well.
Both sides of my family grew up here and I am having fun sorting through old letters and photo albums. There is something magical about going back in time.
Alright, back to creating magic…
Good night.
Theresa Donahoe 