Stockard Creek – despite all of its’ positive traits like the river and decorated train bridge, its quaint main street shops, its parks and walking trails and its touristy vibe – was not without its’ warts. Despite the flags waving from store fronts, the fall festival around Halloween and the pageantry around Christmas and the Fourth of July fireworks show, it had an underbelly – just like any other town.

There were stone alleys behind the stores and shops that ...