From San Mateo County Times
Time's up for Golden Gate Clock
By John Horgan
It's been difficult to get used to the notion that San Mateo Avenue off El Camino Real in downtown San Bruno goes by a different moniker these days.
Somehow, "The Avenue" just seems a bit too high-tone, too gimmicky, too affected. But, as they say, it is what it is. And so be it.
The Avenue, whatever you may think of the name itself, is always changing. Commercial enterprises come and go with great regularity there.
The latest longtime outfit to say adios to the 500 block is the Golden Gate Clock House. After 20 years at that location, owner Russ Byers is heading off into retirement.
Prior to opening in San Bruno, the business operated in the Colma/Daly City area, according to Byers. Overall, the Clock House, which features all manner of timepieces, has been around for a full half-century.
"My dad started it," said Byers. "And I started working here when I was 14."
That was 41 years ago.
The Clock House is situated amidst The Avenue's eclectic array of ethnic markets, second-hand stores, pawnshops, martial arts options, Artichoke Joe's gambling emporium, bars, a swim school and, of course, Lullaby Lane, the big infant-related supply magnet that's been thriving there since 1947.
Nearby is an all-purpose wedding chapel and legal aid service that includes, ironically enough, assistance for those seeking uncontested divorces.
The Avenue is nothing if not a one-stop shopping exercise for any and all Peninsulans. |
