Minutes after putting the finishing touches on storefront signs, over one hundred people gathered at 11am for the Zocalo Coffeehouse grand opening.
Locals, regulars, former Apple co-workers, and many other friends were in attendance. Chamber of Commerce members were on hand for an unusual Saturday ribbon cutting ceremony, and even the mayor came by. There were balloons, temporary tattoos, roasting coffee in the San Franciscan, and lots and lots of coffee and tea!
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Only an hour before the ribbon cutting as Tim finishes the long preparations on the storefront sign letters. Thanks to Bud Sperman for his wonderful woodwork!
Only ten minutes before 11am and the final letter is installed. And no, contrary to some speculation, this timing was not planned for dramatic effect.
The sidewalk sign was installed by Jeff and Sean of San Leandro’s USA Signs just the day before.
The crowd starts collecting. Do you recognize Kelly and Jeannine?
Rachel, Krystn, and Marlene spent the day doing double-time duty.
Liesl fills balloons with helium while Doug reads instructions and Riley looks on.
The San Franciscan roaster made it all possible.
Bob and Lynn step up to the plate for temporary Zocalo logo tattoos from Jessica.
The time finally arrived. Newly spruced-up giant scissors from the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce are hauled out for the official cutting of the ribbon.
Holding a new Chamber of Commerce certificate, Tim cuts a slightly smaller real ribbon, held by Chamber of Commerce CEO Heidi Finberg and Mitch. (Look closely... that’s a temporary Zocalo tattoo on Mitch’s cheek.)
Folks drinking coffee, reading the Broadmoor Beacon, and noshing on pastries... what more could one ask?
At 11:20am, things are hopping! Who do you recognize?
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Here's a short movie of the crowd that showed up.
Get the latest version of QuickTime if you don't have it.
Jarred and the Magic Static Orange Balloon.
Jason, Ingrid, Lori, Brian, Gloria, and Hector (I think) chatting in the living room.
Regulars and out-of-towners kept pouring in.
The best coffee in town, and maybe the best conversation too.
The lines were long, but Krystn, Rachel, and Marlene kept the espresso rolling!
After a long morning, things get back to normal as folks hang around to chat and see their friends.
