Sidewalk gatherings raise money for Elmer’s revamp in Ashfield

Published: 07-18-2023 1:29 PM

ASHFIELD — With no public entry into Elmer’s Store because of a damaged porch, the Elmer’s Revitalization Steering Committee is still bringing the community together, albeit on the sidewalk.

The steering committee, which bought Elmer’s Store for $275,000 on May 12, is hosting two weekly sidewalk gatherings to the left of the 396 Main St. storefront all summer long in an effort to continue raising money to revitalize the space while offering a gathering place for residents. On Friday mornings, volunteers will sell coffee and baked goods, and on Wednesday evenings, visitors can buy burgers and beer.

“I am so honored, it makes me cry,” said Nan Parati, a former owner of Elmer’s Store and a member of the steering committee. “People are so excited about the project.”

With the committee having purchased Elmer’s from former owners Florencia Ferrari Haines and Andreas Auer, it now faces several challenges with structural issues at the property. According to steering committee member Ariel Brooks, they hope to have the restaurant open as a functioning indoor business in time for the Ashfield Fall Festival, but are also focusing on several projects in the meantime.

The steering committee is searching for a contractor to oversee building renovations. They expect to have volunteers carry out the labor.

Elmer’s fundraiser

Meanwhile, Catamount Traders at 874 Mohawk Trail in Shelburne plans to host an auction to support the Elmer’s revitalization project on Sunday, July 23, at 2 p.m.

Ashfield resident Jim Cutler has donated the contents of a storage container to be auctioned off. The contents include art and antique collectibles. Brooks explained the community is also welcome to donate other goods to the auction. Viewing of available auction items will begin at 11 a.m.

Monetary donations are also accepted online at elmerscommunity.org.

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