Magic Muffler on the corner of Bridge St and Webb St, a Salem landmark and frequent home to my old VW bug has passed on over the rainbow yesterday. While walking down the bike path over to Collins Cove we watched a demolition crane take down the Magic Muffler building. Very sad to see a legend go and probably be turned into more condos.
When we lived in Salem 7 years ago, i had an old VW bug, aka the Four Paws Acupuncture Bark Mobile that i used to make house calls up and down the north shore of MA. When we first moved to Salem, i had no idea where any other town was. Didn't have a GPS and there was no such thing as Waze!
So when clients would want an animal acupuncture house call, i took their word that where ever they lived was only 20 minutes away from Salem. After awhile one learns that everyone in this area claims that everything is only 20 minutes away... even if it is really an hour or more!
So my poor car took a beating traveling to Ipswich, Boxford, Wakefield, Melrose, Lynn, Swampscott, Danvers, Peabody, Marblehead and a bunch of other places i just can't remember! The car died after moving to Virginia. It was donated to the SPCA and auctioned off for $900 that went directly the the SPCA. Pawsome!
Pictured in the Bark Mobile is Zack aka the Wookie, who has since passed way. A dear boy and friend. His pet human and our friend, Katherine owns Professional Pet Services of Salem.
Through the years the bug would break down. Needed about 3 starters, radiators, brakes, and so much more. Larry, the owner of Magic Muffler was always there to help. He was friendly, honest and did what he could to keep the cost down.He was one of those mechanics you could trust and feel safe with.
I will always appreciate all he did for both of our cars. A true Salem treasure.
When we moved back to Salem this fall, we were able to see Larry one last time walking across the parking lot of Magic Muffler. He told us that it was closing the day after Thanksgiving and going to be turned into condos. Good fortune Larry and thank you!
FYI: Four Paws Acupuncture is now back up and running! I am now accepting new dog and cat patients in the Salem MA, Peabody MA and Beverly MA area. House-calls only.
More information on animal acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, holistic pet care: http://www.fourpawsacupuncture.com
Jeanie Mossa MS, L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist & herbalist and author. Owner of Four Paws Acupuncture in Salem MA. She has been treating people and animals with holistic medicine for more than 25 years.
