QuoteBy Lindy Thackston
First Coast News
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Hemming Plaza is the heart of downtown Jacksonville.
Some people say Boomtown is where you find the soul.
"It actually brings art of all kinds to everyday man," said John Allen Harrett.
Harrett opened Boomtown with Stephen Dare more than five years ago.
They combined Harrett's love of art of all kinds with Dare's love of cooking eclectic cuisine.
"In high school we skipped every Wednesday, took the bus, and came to Hemming Park and so I always grew up wanting to be a part of the city," said Dare.
"We started in Springfield, and we watched that blossom," said Dare. "Coming back downtown and watching it come alive, it's been an awesome, wonderful experience."
The first Wednesday of every month is the Art Walk in downtown Jacksonville.
It's a time for people like G.M. Palmer to show off their stuff.
He is a poet and he etches his writings into blown glass.
He's been utilizing Boomtown for years.
"I came down on a Wednesday night back when they were still in Springfield," said Palmer. "I said this place is fantastic and you guys are wonderful."
But Wednesday night, Palmer arranged his artwork on a Boomtown table for the last time, Dare prepared his final Wednesday night meal, and Harrett welcomed art walkers for the last time.
"The building that we're currently in has been sold," said Harrett.
"How do I feel about it?" said Dare. "A little bit miffed.
for full article: http://www.firstcoastnews.com/news/local/news-article.aspx?storyid=83673
I don't know where I'll get my "fusion" fix for food. I guess I'll just have to go cold turkey to lose my addiction! ;)
I know I'm not alone in feeling quite sad to see Boomtown leave. It was a wonderful place, filled with delightful people and was indeed, an asset to the area. It helped bring back life...now, it's gone and what's left....it's sad, very sad!
Thank you so much for all you did for me, my family and my friends. Good luck in all your endeavors!