Travel is good for sparking new ideas, seeing what works and why in towns and cities across the U.S.

What makes one place different than another? People, architecture, what is valued, a community. Stories are everywhere. Explore your own backyard, visit a neighboring city or town – and walk into a new (to you) place. Have some food, get a coffee. Ask for recommendations. Meet people face to face and walk around.

Business. Often the story behind how one got started – or the life journey to owning one long established – is simply fascinating.

As 2019 unfolds, look for more reports from walking around and listening to people tell their stories. And interesting history, connections and illuminations found along the way.

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A building so distinctive and cared for – look at the keystone over the arched entrances and largest window. Seen on Broad Street, Meriden, Connecticut (2018).

“Station 3 / Headquarters – 561 Broad Street. Recently renovated, Parker Hose Engine Company 3 has been serving the uptown and southeast areas of the city since 1889. Since undergoing renovations in 1996, this station also houses the department's headquarters.” – MeridenFire.com Photo at right is from An Historic Record and Pictorial Description of the Town of Meriden, Connecticut, 1906. In that image, the tower looks as though it had a bell – which would make perfect sense to raise an alarm and call out to the community firefighters and all within hearing distance.

Parker Hose Co. 3, firehouse in Meriden, Connecticut. In 2018 and from An Historic Record and Pictorial Description of the Town of Meriden, Connecticut, 1906.