"The Ladera Heights Starbucks, also known as the Magic Johnson Starbucks, closed on Sunday. This prime LA location was more than a place to get coffee, it was a cultural gathering spot for a community. Regulars lovingly referred to the Magic Johnson Starbucks as “Starblacks,” and was a place where mostly African-American faces gathered to openly discuss the arrest of Starbucks patrons, politics, work from laptops, take meetings, and play dominoes or high-level chess. Some came everyday to see familiar faces, which included retirees, creatives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. It was commonplace to hear locals affectionately share details about family, activities, and friends. Earvin “Magic” Johnson opened this Starbucks location in 1998, which was the area’s first corporate coffee arrival. Magic Johnson’s Starbucks will be impossible to replace, with its large outdoor seating, the soulful music choices, and the animated, connected crowd." - Mona Holmes
