The mysteries of Manchester Avenue

Randy's Donuts has always been a landmark to us, one that says we're close to the airport, that says we should lighten up and enjoy life via ginormous lifelike donuts. But to some, Randy's Donuts not just a landmark: it's a place to actually stop and buy a donut. It's also midway through the adventure taken by writer Jim Ruland exploring the long and winding Manchester Avenue, starting seaside in Playa Del Ray. His essay appeared in the literary (but not stuffy) magazine Hobart; online there are excerpts and a photo tour of Manchester Avenue. Finally, Randy's Donuts appears in context, along with Roscoe's, a hardware store, and the unloved Great Western Forum.