Yesterday's fluffy clouds really accentuated the new facades of the stores at the Golden Gate Plaza near State Street and Irving Park on Golden Gate Drive. The plaza has over 150,000 square feet, space for 26 businesses, and is close to full occupancy. Before the 2015 renovation, the plaza was at 40% occupancy. The new owner, The Bedrin Organization from New Jersey, have been good stewards. The two largest places are Food Lion on one end and the Air Fun Trampoline Park at the other. Each is over 30,000 square feet; Planet Fitness is over 24,000. There are four restaurants and a coffee shop.
Today is the first day of Passover and also Good Friday. Passover commemorates the Israelites being freed from Egyptian slavery. Good Friday commemorates Christ's Crucifixion. Schools are closed and it is a day for families to spend together. These beautiful clouds remind us to be thankful for the beauty around us and that it can be appreciated, even in a parking lot- especially when there are others around to appreciate the beauty with you. It has been a while since the sky has been this beautiful.
Hopefully, you have a little time for rest and reflection today, even if you are not fasting or doing penance.
I cannot celebrate another shopping center for any reason but I will celebrate the spirit of the holiday with you. Glad, too, that you're having nice weather. I'd love to discuss the resurrection and the "Passover" but I'd be writing for some time.
It fascinates me that you have a cook book from Rawlings. Where did you get it? And obviously, you've been to Cross Creek before. I should say that it is really getting run down now. We were there several years ago and it was better...but the state has taken over and they're not budgeting for what needs to be done. They do have tours yet and a steady stream of visitors though.
Did you see the movie? It was rather corny but still...and Gregory Peck is always great to watch. I'm going to post some more photos of the place in the days ahead.
Have a great weekend whatever you celebrate or don't celebrate, and I always appreciate your comments!
Posted by: Lowell | Friday, March 30, 2018 at 08:05 AM
A lovely sky!
From the names of the shops and establishments, none of them are found in these parts.
Happy Easter!
Posted by: William Kendall | Saturday, March 31, 2018 at 12:31 PM