'Bune says: It's all because of the Y.

A few days ago, the paywall's gate opened, and I was told that a plenary indulgence of five free visits had been granted. Now it has again slammed shut. Perhaps there'll be another spinning of the wheel. Maybe the curtain will be parted, to reveal Bill Hanson removing ad spam for paid on-line subscribers, thus allowing me to make good on my vow of comply, but verify (pop-up demolition).

There's a kind of hush -- all over the world, tonight. Somewhere, a dog barks.

Meanwhile, the newspaper's editor credits the opening of the YMCA five years ago with toppling numerous other dominoes. Do you agree? It's a good piece, and surely the Y provided impetus. What might be missed is the relatively small but symbolically important yearly tithe from both city and county -- an investment in economic development downtown. Almost like a plan. As though there actually is a plan.

Highlights from the hermetic journalism kingdom follow. Maybe you can read the whole essay, and maybe not. Let's all give that pensioner's wheel a mighty heave. Better yet, let's all have a drink.

VAN HOY: Belief in Y’s benefit has paid off, by Shea Van Hoy ('Bama Daydreamin')

— Although the YMCA opened just five years ago, it’s hard to picture downtown New Albany without it. When I took the job as editor of this newspaper in November 2005, there were some people that didn’t want to imagine it at all ...

 ... There have been some hits and some misses, for sure, but here’s a sampling of what’s followed the Y into downtown New Albany:

• A revamped — yet currently underused — riverfront amphitheater.

• A downtown farmers’ market location.

• A new park.

• A winery and a brewpub, and other options to purchase upscale carry-out beer, wine and spirits.

• Restaurants such as Feast BBQ and The Exchange Pub + Kitchen which are getting recognition far beyond New Albany’s borders.

• New French, Italian and Cuban restaurants.

• Trendy boutiques, consignment and gift stores.

• A coffee shop that’s open past lunch time.

• A music venue featuring national acts.

• New Albany outposts of popular Louisville spots Wick’s Pizza, Dragon King’s Daughter, Toast on Market, Quills Coffee and Regalo. All of these businesses chose to open in New Albany rather than another Southern Indiana location.

• Art installations.

• Bike lanes, although more are sorely needed.

I liken these arrivals to dominoes falling, and the YMCA was the one that got the momentum going. These unique restaurants, stores and attractions breed more of the same ...

 ... The downtown New Albany YMCA serves as an example of return on investment for a community and standing up for progress, even when there is resistance. And Friday’s five-year anniversary celebration for the Y is proof that one decision can make a difference in a city’s future.