Tag: United States

Cultural Events, photography3 Comments

Flashback Friday: Alameda’s 4th of July Parade 2017

Darlene

The 4th of July Parade in Alameda, California (10 miles/16 km east of San Francisco) is one of the largest Independence Day parades in the United States, with over 170 floats and 2,500 participants. A little over 3 miles/5 km long, the parade route is also the longest route in the United States, drawing over 60,000 spectators from around the Bay Area. Unfortunately, there won’t be any floats, horses, marching bands, dancers, or vintage cars this year. The 4th of July Parade for 2020 was cancelled due to the pandemic. In honor of the holiday, I’d like to share 4 … Continue reading Flashback Friday: Alameda’s 4th of July Parade 2017

California, Food & Drink13 Comments

Specialty’s Café & Bakery Closes After 33 Years

Darlene

I’ve been going to Specialty’s Café & Bakery for work lunches for over 15 years. So when I learned that the San Francisco Bay Area-based chain would be permanently closing their doors after today, May 19, 2020, I was shocked! The reason for the closure? The pandemic. Their website explains that “Current market conditions attributed to COVID-19 and shelter-in-place policies have decimated company revenues.” Founded in 1987, the company operated over 55 cafes in California, Illinois, and Washington state. Before the pandemic, Specialty’s was popular among busy office workers who wanted a quick, but nutritious lunch, like salads, sandwiches, and … Continue reading Specialty’s Café & Bakery Closes After 33 Years