Bubblegum Alley in SLO

Freshman orientation at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo included a nighttime foray in the creek that runs through town and a stop at bubblegum alley to stick a wad on the wall.

At least that is what I remember.

It was creepy and muddy and dank along the creek but the alley was all fun and whimsy.

Well, times have changed. The creek sparkles. It is now lined with upscale eateries and walking bridges.

The alley is another story.

Yes, they did put in a bubblegum machine nearby, in case you forgot to bring your own chew.

But the smell and sight of Bubblegum Alley is ewwwwwwwwwwwwww.

The concept is still amusing, but all the flies, not so much.

And I wasn't able to identify my petrified gum from years ago.