Veggies, Meat, Dairy... and a Band

There was no shortage of good things to be said about the newest grocery store in Castro Valley, by Safeway execs and local politicians. Safeway's Northern California Chief, Karl Schroeder, was on hand to welcome local dignitairies such as Jim Negri, Frank Mellon, Nate Miley, Roberta Rivet and more to a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday.

Schroeder said a few words, then gave way to Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley. 

Some weren't impressed by the pomp and circumstance. One customer said, "I just want to get out of here."

But several were heard commenting on the layout being similar to that of the store in its previous form, when it carried the PW moniker. They liked that it made for a familiar experience and that they knew where things were.  

Chuck Ortez was making his way through the produce department when asked what he thinks of the new store. "It's great. I don't have to go all the way down the hill," he said.

The new store is open 24 hours a day and is running a grand opening promotion through Friday.