Surfside Liquors: A Legacy Business in Hunters Point
SAN FRANCISCO - After 54 years in business in Hunters Point, San Francisco leaders officially recognize Surfside Liquors as a legacy business. Located in the southeast corner of the city, it has been at the heart of the Bayview Hunters Point community. For the past five decades, Bob Pinkard has managed the store, treating customers like family.
"I've never seen nobody I didn't love," said Pinkard. "I may not like your ways, but I love you. Might not like your ways. But, I love everybody."
More than just a liquor store, Surfside has been a community institution. Pinkard has offered fresh produce and hot meals, ensuring no one goes hungry. He has watched generations of families grow up in the community, and in all those years, he said he's never been robbed or needed to call the police.
"You know what," said Pinkard. "I cashed their mothers' checks, I gave them credit, I loved them like I did my own. We've never had a problem here. These are my babies, these are my babies. Look at it! Some of them are going like this right now."
Shaquille Cooper, inspired by Pinkard's dedication, launched his clothing label. He emphasized the importance of recognizing Bob for his significant impact on the community.
Supervisor Shamann Walton recognized Surfside Liquors as a legacy business and Pinkard as an anchor for the community.
"He's a legacy business, which is a business that's been in business in our district for more than 30 years," said Walton. "It's exciting to be able to honor him, and it's important that we honor people while they're still here, while they're still with us and doing the things that we get excited about."
Despite his age, Pinkard shows no plans to retire. He continues to serve customers, keeping the store running as he has for five decades. This recognition is not new for Pinkard, as he was named a community hero 20 years ago for providing fresh produce to families in a food desert.
KTVU reporter Christien Kafton gathered information for this story.