“He who conquers himself is the mightiest warrior.” -Confucius
When I first came back to Three Rivers in 1996, my brother Bill took me out to breakfast. He said that we were going to Dad’s Place. I left Three Rivers in 1963, and had never known about Dad’s. My brother liked Dad’s because they knew him and greeted him by name whenever he dropped by. Our breakfast was great and so I frequented Dad’s on my own many times after that first visit. Like my brother and many others, it makes me feel good to be greeted by name when I visit any business. One feels like a member of the family.
Dad’s recently closed their doors for good. After many good years, they just got tired and bid farewell to the community. I wish them well and will miss the friendly greetings, good food and good service. Will miss you gals and hope you enjoy sleeping in more often. BURP!
Hardings Friendly Market will be closing their doors in September. This is too bad, because it’s a sign that the “Big Box” outlets have won once again. I know many folks will miss the closeness of a neighborhood store. Being able to walk a block or two to pick up a few groceries is a convenience you don’t see much anymore. The days of the small neighborhood shop can only be found in the history books and in our memories. I remember visiting Ferroties on the corner of West and Armitage Streets as a little boy. Stores like this were all over town, especially in the Third District. You can’t find two-for-a-penny Rootbeer Barrels at Meijer. Hardings is the perfect size. I don’t believe they moved their products around that much, which was a great idea. You knew what aisle an item was in, so you were in and out in a very short time. The best to Lonnie, Angie, and the rest of the employees. I wish you all the best and will see you Out and About.
Labor Day weekend is just around the corner. Don’t forget the Annual Bridge Walk on Labor Day. Thanks to the Three Rivers Woman’s Club, we can check out the bridges in Three Rivers and support a great group of ladies.
See you Out and About!
Norm Stutesman lives in Three Rivers. He receives mail at P.O. Box 103 in Three Rivers.
