The former headquarters . . . out in Executive Park, bereft of its former glory. Probably vacant now, but 30 years ago this rather nondescript building was the home of the renowned Kindercare Corporation, and it operated kindergarten “learning centers” in every state. It was certainly one of the most significant business successes ever to arise and grow up in Montgomery. In just 15 years, from the opening of its first center in 1969, it grew to 1,000 centers, each one featuring the famous red school-bell tower. But, by 1992 management had lost its way, and the company suffered its ignominious crash. Soon after, the carcass was hauled away to Portland, Oregon to live on. But for two decades, this corner of Executive Office Park was a hot property.

-Charles Humphries