What's happenin' at the Hub?
By BETH ELDRIDGE
Contributing writer
Ask anyone between the ages of seven and 70 and they'll tell you what's "happenin' at The Hub."
On April 1, The Hub, located in the historic pharmacy building, opened to host the After Prom Party.
Many long and hard months of work by many workers of all ages paid off big-time! Dale and Doe Ann Hague have had a heartfelt vision for the youth of Peabody and without a doubt, it has reaped its rewards. Doe Ann said, "We are here to build relationships with the kids."
Since opening, there has been flurry of activity at The Hub. The Hagues' main focus is to give the kids a place to go. They can play pool, video games, watch movies on a really big screen, listen to music, eat meals and snacks, or just kick back and visit. Rushanna Smith, 14, said, "It's a great place to hang out."
There has been a variety of live entertainment from jazz, Christian metal core, groups from Tabor College, DJ dances, and local talent at karaoke night. The Hub also hosted two Halo (video game) tournaments, which is a big draw to the youth. Summer movies were offered to elementary children and on Sunday nights were is "free movie night."
The decor is a lovely café-chic, but very warm and homey. The kids have been very protective and take good care of The Hub. Nancy McLeod, a volunteer said, "The kids feel like it's their place."
Over the past six months, The Hub has welcomed the Weight Warriors, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, ladies' Bible study, Peabody-Burns High School Sport Team Building, Marion County Historical Society, FCLLA Lock-In, and many other school-related events. Chris Young, a teacher, enthusiastically stated, "The Hub is superfantastic! I commend the Hagues and all the volunteers."
It is refreshing to see at most of the activities there will be kids, adults, and parents all enjoying the same space. No generation gap here!
Since The Hub is a 501C3, the Hagues hope to operate with sales from food and different events. The Hub also is available for private parties. Several local service groups and the children from vacation Bible school stocked them up with paper and cleaning supplies. They wil be hosting several events for Main Street Christmas plans. Duke Eldridge said, "This is the best thing that has happened on Main Street in years. Dale and Doe Ann have done a neat thing to fill a need in Peabody."
So see, The Hub is the happenin' place on Main Street, and you are welcome anytime.
