George,

I completely disagree with Daniel Bluestone's contention that the Beta House should have been preserved. I've lived within walking distance of that house for thirty-five years. It was surrounded on three sides by nondescript apartment buildings and was across the street from a laundromat. Architects are always talking about "context". I assume that at one time, many years ago, this handsome home was in handsome surroundings, but its "context" had long since disappeared. If one wishes to preserve a historic building, one needs to preserve its neighborhood.

As for the "Fry's Spring Serv. Sta." on the corner of JPA and Maury Avenue, my opinion is that it is an eyesore and has been an eyesore for the entire thirty-five years I've lived in the neighborhood. I can't believe there are people who want to preserve it. An ugly building is an ugly building, even if you remember it nostalgically from your childhood.

Another ugly building that should not have been preserved is the old Jefferson School. But to say so publicly in this town is to invite being called racist.

I took a walk down West Main Street one day, armed with a list of properties that had been designated "historic" and had to be preserved. No wonder the much-needed redevelopment of this corridor has not occurred!

I wish our city were not in the grip of the preservationists. Cities need to grow and change to meet new needs.

Elizabeth Kutchai (Electronic mail, April 13, 2008)