Jollibee Opens in Alameda; Halloween on Webster St; King Lear by The Foodbank players

Further proof the West End has truly arrived: Jollibee opened on October 11 at 2670 Fifth Street, Pad A, Alameda, CA 94501 (right in the heart of Alameda Landing). Word on the street is that eager fans lined up around the block to be among the first islanders to savor what USA TODAY hails as America’s “best fast-food fried chicken.”

This shiny new spot marks Jollibee’s 12th Bay Area location, and now fans across the city—and all over the Bay Area—have another go-to place for their Jollibee fix. Personally, I can’t wait to dive into my first Jollibee sando here on the West End!

And now, trick-or-treaters, a treat for you! WABA invites families to start the Halloween candy hunt a little early. From October 26 through Halloween, local retailers will have baskets of candy ready for you. Be sure to follow us on Facebook or Instagram at @westalamedabusiness for all the latest updates on participating spots.

This weekend, The Food Bank Players will be bringing Shakespeare’s King Lear to life in the Healing Garden (1435 Webster Street)! Did you know that the hit TV show Empire was actually inspired by King Lear? In an interview with The Atlantic, Danny Strong, the show’s creator, said, “I literally was like: King Lear. Hip-hop. Empire.” From there, he connected with Lee Daniels, and the rest is TV history! Not bad for something written in 1606, don’t miss the play that inspired it all. Get your dates and details at foodbankplayers.org.

Lastly, I want to take a moment to look back on my unforgettable first summer as WABA’s Executive Director. From getting the lay of the land to launching the new West is Best series with my partner at AJ Leighton Creative, this summer was full of lessons, music, dancing, and connecting with amazing artists, musicians, and neighbors. Here’s to all the good times we shared—and to even more coming our way soon!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=shared&v=tJBqnwsQ3eA

Remember, if you have any news you want me to share email me at elissa@westalamedabusiness.com.  See you next week Alameda, e