Sunday, May 31, 2026

My Dad Helped College Place Expand

First off, this article from late 70s or early 80s contains a huge error, my dad, Alan Barer, never owned Miller Supply, but did own the building.  My Uncle Dave was owner to the Big Y, a retail center, between Walla Walla and College Place 
At the time, College Place had a small retai footprint, mostly businesses along College Avenue, many owned by Walla Walla College, which is now a university.
The eventual annexation, which would go all the way East to Myra Road, helped diversify the city's retail offerings.
Thank you to brother, Steve for sending this. 

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Great post Mike. thanks to your Dad and Uncle Dave for supporting the Big Y shopping center and the crown jewel of the shopping center Roy's Chuckwagon. Roy's Chuckwagon is a beloved piece of nostalgic, local history in the College Place and Walla Walla area. "Roy's Chuckwagon always brings back such fond memories of comforting, homestyle cooking. Their mashed potatoes, gravy, and fried chicken were absolute classics that still make my mouth water! It was the ultimate place for a hearty, delicious meal. You always knew you were going to leave full, happy, and ready to go back! "Roy's was the go-to spot for Sunday dinners and family celebrations. It truly felt like stepping into a warm, western community dining room! Places like Roy's Chuckwagon represent the best of College Place and Walla Walla's local history. It's the kind of nostalgic, classic buffet that everyone in the region fondly remembers! Thank you again to your dad and Uncle Dave for giving us all memories that will last a lifetime!