Jones Grocery

There were 3 stores within one block of O.L. Price School. They all had their specialties. Jones Grocery made the best-toasted sandwiches ever. Marshall Grocery the best hamburgers. Campbell Grocery was known for its snow cones and dishwater hot dogs.

Jones Grocery, situated on Dolan Street, was positioned one house north of Price St. Its close proximity to O.L. Price School made it a convenient spot for students and locals alike. During the early years of the store, Mrs. Kates, who happened to be Mrs. Jones's mother, managed the store. Renowned for their delectable toasted sandwiches, Jones Grocery also offered a variety of other mouthwatering options.

Mrs. Kates resided on Scott Street, her home featuring a screened-in back porch that concealed her activities from passersby. In her backyard, she nurtured luscious plum and peach trees. I have fond memories of those days when my friends and I, albeit mischievous, would venture up the alley, scale her fence, and sneak away with some peaches and plums. However, our pilfering adventures were often cut short by Mrs. Kates herself, wielding her trusty walking stick. Startled, we would swiftly scatter, knowing we had been caught in the act. As I grew older, I would occasionally visit Mrs. Kates, taking a seat on her porch and engaging in heartfelt conversations. She once confided in me, saying, "I used to observe you all helping yourselves to my peaches and plums, and I didn't mind. It was your greed that forced me to chase you away." It dawned on me after all these years that we never faced any consequences for our actions. In those times, misdeeds didn't go unnoticed by vigilant neighbors, and the news would reach our parents before we even returned home.