Goodbye to the 5 & Dime

Dear Friends,

Found out today that Variety Fair 5 & Dime in Rice Village is closing its doors in June. Family-owned and run since 1948, the store described itself as “crammed floor to ceiling with merchandise including straight pins, hair nets, bra extenders, rubber balls, cap guns, lamp shades, school supplies, inflatable bagels, boxing nuns, and candy galore—just a few of the thousands of items….”

I’ve picked out my grandchildren’s presents there for the past two years — things I would have found no place else, bobbles and knickknacks with soul and a feel of humanity about them.

One of the friendly proprietors told me that they just can’t make a go of it in today’s economy. But you can stop by and buy up some of the amazing items that remain. Get a generous supply, because shops with soul have nearly all given way to deadening merchandizing marvels like Walgreen and CVS.

Variety Fair 5&10 in Rice Village

Browsing through Variety Fair brings back a flood of memories at a time when memories are especially on the menu of my days.

So many precious ones here from my ministry among you, and from the years culminating in the twin anniversaries I’ll celebrate with you in worship this Sunday: 50 years since I ‘converted’ to Unitarianism, and 25 years since I was ordained to ministry. The music for this service will be just about as dated, eclectic, and soul-stirring as the array at the Five & Dime. Do come and sing along.

Best,

David

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