While visiting Andalusia recently I had a serendipitous experience, which proves that hospitality is still a hallmark of the town of my birth over 88 years ago. Well before 7 a.m. on Nov. 16, I parked my car in front of the old Prestwood Building and headed down South Three Notch Street for a nostalgic walk. Forty-five minutes later I returned to discover that my right rear tire was too flat to drive.

My first thought was to call for roadside assistance, but I was without my cell phone. Then I remembered that Brooks Shoe Shop was open. There I was greeted by the friendly smile of Mr. Hilry Trawick who offered the use of his phone, but when he discovered my dilemma, he told me that he had a portable air tank in the back of the shop and that he would be happy to fill it so that I could inflate my sagging tire. I told Mr. Trawick that I remembered with fondness both Mr. Brooks and Mr. Clower, and that I was sure they (as am I) would be pleased to know that the iconic business on South Three Notch is in good hands.

Thanks to the kindness of this good Samaritan I was on my way to the tire repair shop within a very few minutes.

 

Morgan Simmons

Evanston, Illinois

msimmevan@gmail.com