Every time I go by the Mountain Gate Plaza it brings back great memories.

Whether I'm driving in the front or riding in the back, I can't help but remember what it used to be, going to see a movie with the family and walking out the back where there was parking and a nice fountain, or maybe getting a bite to eat at Shakey's pizza.

I'm 18 now, but back when I was young this was the place to be. You could shop, see a movie, eat, just sit at the tables, or you would go there to get your Santa Claus or Easter Bunny pictures. Best of all was Family Fun Zone, a great arcade with the best games; my favorite was the Ghostbuster's game.

But slowly the mini mall started to fade, and the stores disappeared one by one until they all closed.

I will admit the plaza does look a lot better now after it's been remodeled, except it does sadden me to see that the entrance to the old mini mall is now closed up and a vacant store.

Every time I walk by I can't help but look through the window doors.

Inside, the place is frozen in time. Although it is empty, you can see all the locations and the old seating area with the blue and purple tile, I believe.

It takes me back to the time when it was a thriving location of people and fun. I miss it. I do not know what will become of the place, but I will always have the memories, and when I look in that window and remember, it makes me smile. Kyle Quiroz Simi Valley