Block by block, Raymond closed.

Fraught with empty buildings, but nobody supposed…

That after a while they’d all fall down.

What a demise for a once bustling town.

Having lived in Aberdeen for 71 years, I left with memories of a robust and bawdy lumber town, but after the owls impinged on both aspects, Aberdeen began its gradual decay. Whereupon, numerous historical and architectural buildings became parking lots, leaving a crosshatch of unsightly future candidates. It didn’t have to be this way.

Had there been an understanding and focus on preserving the illustrious character of this backwoods port city, Aberdeen would be an attractive city today.

Living in Raymond for the past 10 years, I see the same path being followed. Outside the town’s edge resides a sign that invites folks to stop and witness Raymond’s historical character. I can’t help thinking as I pass it that the word “hysterical” should have been used.

Someone owns a lot of downtown properties and buildings. Shouldn’t we know who and why they are being allowed to decay while we wait for the eventual closure of the Weyerhaeuser mill?

If Raymond can’t decide to direct its future, the future will simply happen to it. Without direction, Raymond is dying.

Save the “polygons”!

SALVATORE KOVACH

Raymond