Isn’t it funny how your day can start off in one direction, then suddenly take a hard turn to the left? I came in this morning anticipating a fairly normal day, with lots of work to catch up on. Then I heard the chainsaws. For the history buffs, in 1976 during what was called the “Urban Renewal Project,” a large section of Main street here in our little town of Boaz Alabama was closed to traffic. Large concrete awnings were erected, trees were planted, and playgrounds and fountains were built. It was deemed “The Mall.” That was more than 30 years ago, and The Mall is starting to show it’s age. With more businesses relocating to the heavier trafficked highway 431, many of the buildings have been left empty for some time. For quite a while now I’ve been hearing the talk about dismantling the old mall and re-opening the street. I guess it’s a brand new version of the “Urban Renewal” project. Whether or not the renovation is a good decision only time will tell. I’m told that we should embrace change, but I can’t help but be a little sad because part of my history is being removed. It started today with the chainsaws. I quickly grabbed my camera and walked through the old mall snapping what pictures I could. I shot the giant “Christmas Tree” as they were pulling the lights out and sawing off the lower branches. I took a picture of the sign out in front of the Hunt and Wright hardware store, which only recently closed. In front of that building is the playground where my grandfather used to bring me to play. I was only 6 years old, and the place was brand new…so I guess I just told you how old I am. We’ve enjoyed taking our own kids there over the last few years, and it’s sad to see it go. I loved to ride on the little skunk, and if I think about it, I can still smell the pine bark that they used to put on the ground. Sadly they had already removed the skunk by the time I got there. It’s probably for the best because I’m sure I would have kidnapped it and took it home with me only to hear Michelle say “What in the world are you gonna do with THAT?” Lastly, I stopped at the OK Barber shop, which has been located in the same building since 1909. Mr. J.A. Cook was there, as usual, so I went in for a chat. Funny, but I don’t think we had ever formally met, and I regret not meeting him sooner. He shared a few stories with me, and as it turns out he knew my grandfather. It was a good little talk, and I look forward to many more. Ironically, this is my first post of 2010, and I apologize if it seems melodramatic. I guess I should just do what I’m told, and embrace the change. So as I say goodbye to my old friend the mall, I will say hello to the new year, and welcome the many changes that it has in store for us. I want to wish all of you, my friends and family, the happiest of new years. May God pour out His blessings like never before.
by Bentley
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