As with most things, our local rumor mill goes through cycles. Well, it appears that the doldrums of summer and a couple of lots being cleared have the mill working at an unusually high pace at this time, so I decided to address the rumors that I am hearing most often (FYI, I am saving the grocery store for last).
      First, Five Guys Burgers and Fries. For the last year or so, the rumor has been that a Five Guys location is going to be built here in Statesboro. There is some validity to that statement in that there is an interested franchisee that has been looking here. However, nothing appears to have been finalized at this point. For fans of Five Guys, I would be encouraged.
      Second, the recently cleared lot across from Dingus Magees, at the corner of Georgia Avenue and Chandler Road. For those of us who remember Georgia Southern before the boom, many a fraternity party was held in the house on that lot, and it was a central gathering place. It is strange to see the empty lot that is there now. I could not get confirmation on this, but my understanding is that it will become a "pay" parking lot.
      Third, the Raco at the intersection of Northside Drive and North Main Street. The two buildings on the corner, including the Raco are in the process of being demolished. The land is owned by a company in Augusta, and plans for the property have not been made public at this time.
      Finally, a grocery store. If I had $10 for every time in the last six years that someone told me they were absolutely certain that a new grocery store was going to be built here, or asked if we were "getting" a grocery store, my family and I could take one awesome vacation.
      However, this time the rumor mill may be onto something.
      As you know, typically, a developer will scout out a site for a shopping center with a grocery store as the anchor tenant, and then "pitch" that site to the grocery store chain. It is my understanding that there is an "interested" grocery store at this time, and there is a very legitimate, real possibility that a new store may be built here.
      That is all that I can say, but as one person in the industry told me, the smoke this time may actually be for real. I promise to let you know, when I know.
      So, until next Tuesday, I bid you au revoir.

      Got a scoop for Jan? Call her at (912) 489-9463. or email her at jmoore@statesboroherald.com