Editor:

Is there life after Wal-Mart? This is the question I am asking Centerville. Yes, Wal-Mart sneaked in like a thief in the night, and now its earth movers are tearing up what was once "Centerville open space". As you stand at 400 West and Parrish Lane you can now visualize what is in your future. The dystopia of anywhere, big box America. It's happening and it can't be changed.

Now, is there life after Wal-Mart? Yes, there is always Main Street. You lost the battle on Parrish Lane but Main Street could be your salvation. Main Street could be made to prosper and reflect your so-called "small town" character.

All you need is leadership with "stones" and a community with values and determination. Others have done it. Places like Suisun, Hercules, Brea, and Healdsburg. Places that determined their own destiny and identity.

Is there life after Wal-Mart? Was there ever life in "Centerlessville"? Is it true what a certain developer told me several years ago? "That 'Centerlessville' was a faceless lump of clay awaiting his vision to define it."

Is Centerville going to reflect your values and character in the end or is this just a place you come home to sleep?



Steve Blackham

Centerville