PHOTO GALLERY: In Centralia, a desire for growth with small-town character

In Centralia, Boone County's second-largest city, residents and business owners desire economic growth for their community — while preserving its small-town character. Missourian staff photographer Pinar Istek has captured these images of a community determined to maintain its values.

In downtown Centralia, the walk along Allen Street is like that of small towns across the Midwest. Antique stores and flea markets are scattered among diners, realty agencies and law firms.

Jeff Grimes, left, general manager of the Centralia Fireside Guard newspaper, and reporter David Lawrence look at the newspaper from Nov. 2, 1961, to pick a story to rewrite for the 50-years-ago-today section. They chose a story about the rural school district from 1961.

Mike Kinkead, owner of Kinkead's Pharmacy in Centralia, hands Russell Walther his medicine Monday afternoon. Cellphones, postcards, shampoos and Christmas decorations are among the products offered at the pharmacy in addition to medical supplies.

Christyne Robertson teaches yoga to a group of women during a class Tuesday morning at Centralia Recreation Center. Robertson, who received her teaching certificate in the 1980s, started teaching yoga three years ago.

Howard Hedges, 87, and George Cox wait for their breakfast while Jody Roberts, the owner of JR's Diner in Centralia, serves other customers Tuesday morning.

An overview shot of Centralia shows an industrial scene Monday afternoon.