DAYS GONE BY

When I was a little boy growing up in downtown Tarentum, the Christmas season was very exciting. G.C. Murphy's, W.T. Grants, Isaly's, Bards, Betty Gay's, Shenkans, Berkeys, and other stores created the shopping excitement.I especially remember the sludging through the snow and the lively Christmas decorations on Corbett Street.Each year that Christmas comes around, I recall the sound of my snow boots and the boot clasps that "clinked" all the way in the snow to Murphy's. I couldn't wait to spend my hard earned dollar buying my mom's Christmas present. How warm Murphy's store was coming in from the cold. The mirrors on the stairs down to Santa's domain. The smell of the decorations. Truly a childhood remembrance.I remember the three bells that illuminated overhead on 4th and Corbett. The ringing of the Salvation Army Bell and the music in front of Betty Gay's store. What a great time.Have you given thought to doing an "Living" article on Tarentum, Christmas' past?
Bert SmithAlbuquerque, NM
Headed for my 61st. Christmas.