Wednesday, October 14, 2009

A Pleasant Journey Down Memory Lane

When artistic landmarks are remembered in the annals of history, chances are the framing counter of the old ZCMI Center Deseret Book store will not be mentioned. That is okay by me. The art exhibit on the inside of the framing counter door was not meant to be enjoyed by the whole of mankind. It was more a massive private joke for the celebrated few. Those who knew it remember it as being named after a certain person whose hairless head and cheesy smile greeted all who opened the counter door. I fear if I speak his name it may summon his presence here, much like speaking the name of Lord Voldemort sparked the same fear with many in the Harry Potter books. From henceforth, for purposes of not speaking his name, I will simply refer to him as "our follicularly challenged friend."

The origins of The "Our Follicularly Challenged Friend" Memorial Framing Counter began independent of myself. It began with an altered photograph of our follicularly challenged friend taped inside the door of the counter. Accompanying the aforementioned altered photograph were several thought bubbles, one of which I recall saying "pucker up, Buttercup!" I forget who gave the counter it's now legendary name, but I know it was not me.

It did not take long for me to become a regular contributor to the inside of the framing counter. My random ideas often found their way to paper and quickly ended up taped to the door of the counter. My contributions ranged for innovative product ideas to artistic depictions of Our Follicularly Challenged Friend's hairpiece chasing small children. When the time came and I left the company, the fragmented pieces of art were given to me as a parting gift. Being the pack rat that I am, they were saved...somewhere. I am pleased to report the archive has been found. In time, the historic documents will be archived in digital form on this blog, so all who knew the counter will know a portion of it again. Until I get the chance to review the legal implications of posting the altered likeness of Our Follicularly Challenged Friend and revealing his name in this blog, I will have to refrain for now.

Postings will soon begin, so stay tuned for hopefully regular updates!