Day 92: Goodbye Mr. Alan’s

It is with a heavy heart that I must tell you the news: Mr. Alan’s is no more. At least not in Flint. The company was bought out by another clothing and shoe store, Snipes. (I don’t think it is owned by Wesley Snipes, but that is still a possibility). You may have heard the news earlier this year, but I just found out yesterday with my own eyes. I had only recently discovered (two years ago) where the mid-Michigan famous store was located. I never shopped there, but it was a staple of my childhood. It wasn’t because of the shoes but because of the amazing deal of $29 for a pair of shoes or two for $50.

You may remember the commercials that appeared in the late ’90s and early '00s where a man in an orange shirt would pop out from the bottom corner of the screen and yell out “twenty-nine or two for fifty” in that iconic voice. If you don’t remember the commercial, here is a link to one from 1999. There was a variety of deals always happening at that store, it seemed. I, unfortunately, barely shopped in Flint, and never for clothes. We went to Saginaw because that is just what we did. Additionally, I never had the need for two pairs of shoes at the same time.

As I stated, I only discovered the location of the store two years ago by chance. I passed it almost every day coming home from Kettering University, coming down Clio Road on the north side of Flint. I always wondered what it looked like on the inside. I figured, as an icon of Michigan, it would always be there. Eventually, I would have time after robotics and take a peek. But I can't. I am disappointed. Sure, I can still go into Snipes and pretend it is Mr. Alan’s, but it won’t be the same. As an adult, I could actually buy two pairs of shoes at one time. And at a steal for $50! Though, with inflation it may be $49 or two for $90. Still a bargain.

If you are weeping now, I understand. It is hard when things from our childhood change. It’s dates our lives and now we have to adjust to the change. I’m sure Snipes will do a good job providing the Flint community with quality sneakers and brand-name swag, but it won’t be the same. Perhaps I was one of the reasons they had to sell. I enjoyed the commercials but never bought the product. Fair well, Mr. Alan. You are gone but not forgotten.

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Author’s Note #1: If you want to see and hear the man behind the voice, check out this episode of The Detroiters. (Service provider dependent)