10/28/2015
Traci Swartz // Community support for renovation of 427-429 State
Augusta has much to offer without the common pitfalls of a larger suburban city. There is a community theatre, bowling alley, disc golf course, and there will soon be a splash park. What Augusta doesn’t have is an intimate reception hall for class reunions, showers, or other small events. The available options are often too large and too pricey to fit the needs of local groups. Renovating the building previously occupied by Calvert’s Department Store would fit this need perfectly.
My mom, Marsha (Schaible) Uhrmacher, grew up in Augusta in the 50s and 60s. She spoke often about shopping at Calvert’s downtown. It was one of the first department stores and it was special to the people of this small town. Later in life, my mom would collect Calvert’s memorabilia she found at estate sales because the memories of shopping there were so fond to her.
The community takes great pride in its downtown. Even today, it boasts vintage brick streets reminiscent of a by-gone era. Community events are held on nearly a monthly basis where people gather downtown to shop, celebrate, and socialize. The more storefronts occupied, the more downtown will thrive and add to the town’s economic welfare. Surrounded by boutiques, restaurants, and a historic theatre, it’s the perfect environment for a small reception hall.
Traci Swartz
