Time marches on, and a stark reminder of that has been watching the track hoe as it crunched its way through the remnants of the Gateway Lanes along Hwy. 80 on the east side of downtown Mineola.

It’s actually the second historic structure to meet its demise on this end of town in recent months, with the previous razing of an old car dealer office.

That was such a tiny building that it was gone almost before you could notice.

The Gateway was a more substantial structure and evokes much more palpable memories.

Though I’ve never darkened the doors of the place, those memories still ring true.

A lifelong love of bowling began as a Cub Scout field trip. A league was formed, and my partner and I overtook first place during the final week to earn my first trophy – back in the days when trophies were rare things for kids. I’m sure I displayed it for years.

Saturday morning youth leagues followed for several years, with the weekly cry from Mom to head for the bathroom and strip off those smoky clothes that went straight into the washer. Our hometown was dry so there was no alcohol sold at the lanes but plenty of smoking.

Bowling became more infrequent through the years, with the last league about 30 or so years ago and no real memory of the last time I actually lifted a ball.

I was not aware of the way the sport had changed until coming across a pro tournament on TV a few months back and seeing the two-handed delivery. I’m sure I could have been a contender.

Among those memories elicited with fondness were the birthday parties with a group of friends for a couple hours at the lanes. I’m told those were regular events at the Gateway.

And if I could have all those quarters back invested in pinball, well, who knows?

The Gateway has evoked another hue and cry: What is there to do for the youth in a small town?

Though not every town has or had a bowling alley, those that were fortunate enough definitely could give at least one answer to that question, along with skating rinks and movie houses.

Of course, there is always plenty to do for those who seek involvement. It is not entirely necessary for entertainment venues to be provided. Civic groups, churches, scouts and such provide many avenues, and those of school age can be as involved as they care to be. Leagues for soccer, baseball/softball and many other youth sports operate nearly year-round.

Hands that are idle become so through lack of effort, or perhaps desire, not lack of opportunity.

Yes, it’s too bad the Gateway has been relegated to history. But based on the memories shared, it played an important, some might even say vital, role in the history of this community.

At least some of that history will be preserved, we understand, based on the observation that the sign is heading to the local museum, perhaps with some other memorabilia.

Though we didn’t know the Gateway, we knew what it stood for, and for that we are thankful.