Odessa

I went to pick-up some take-out from a favorite eatery in what is known as the antiques district of our small city. It is an antiques district in more than what you can pick-up and take home - the very buildings themselves are antiques. At least one block in the area has been the backdrop for at least two Victorian era movies. In many ways, the depressed economic condition that has persisted in the area has caused it to appear as if time stopped about a century ago.

Tonight, I took a slightly different route than I normally do. I had driven past the monstrosity all the other times I was in the neighborhood. However, this time, there IT was, right in front of me, and I thought: "Good lord that is ugly!"

What was IT? IT was the old town hall in a depressing 70's era modern design. Here was a drab concrete structure with no right angles to speak of, mocking the depressed city. IT stands starkly among the tasteful brownstones and colorfully restored brick Victorian buildings. I hadn't noticed it much before because it stands back a few feet from the lines of other buildings in the area so it is not in clear view when driving by.

Who ever thought this architectural albatross was going to look good in a predominantly Victorian era neighborhood should have his/her sanity and eyes checked. It is ugly. And now it is empty since town hall has been moved. I vote they tear the hideous thing down and open our view of the river beyond.