As of Dec. 19, 2008, a changing of the guard will be taking place at Shakelton Hardware. Kathy and I will be handing the reins of the business to a young and enthusiastic individual, Brian Dorfman.

Brian has a love and appreciation of the area that dates back to his days spent at Ithaca College as an undergraduate. Brian is a successful sound engineer who designs systems for entertainment venues and recording studios nationally and internationally. His interests are widely varied and he has chosen to find ways to spend more time here in Aurora.

In recent years, he has become a stakeholder in the community, purchasing the former Episcopalian Church. Brian currently serves on the Aurora Free Library Board as treasurer. We started discussing the possibility of selling Shakelton Hardware late in the summer, and I feel I've gotten a good sense of Brian's commitment to and enthusiasm for this new endeavor.

When Kathy and I took over in 1990 with Charles Shakelton's blessing, we laughingly remarked that we would work diligently to bring Shakelton Hardware into the 20th century. We worked to blend the old with the new, hoping to retain as much of the feeling of bygone times as possible while serving the community with greater selection and more timely merchandise. We strove to make long-lasting friends and gain the confidence of the community and the greater area we served. Trust and confidence are not easily given but are earned by service and deeds.

We chose a path less taken, because we wanted our children to be instilled with that basic premise. We would never delude ourselves that we were a financial success. But many different marks can measure success. It's the friendships forged out of serving a community over a period of years. It's the smile that comes to the face of the young and old when they feel they've stepped back to an earlier time and place in history. It can be measured by the recurring creak of a much traveled floor, the permeating smells of another era blended with new, or the extra push it takes to hear the bell sound as the door opens.

It can be measured by the shared stories, speculation, handshakes and confidences exchanged over a time honored work counter. It can be measured simply by its existence in place and time. Most importantly it is measured by the loyal and faithful that continue to pass through the door. Kathy and I have felt the warm embrace of the community we have served. It is no small thing and an important measure in and of our lives, for that we thank you.

There will be changes to come. I'm sure Brian will be laughing and pondering dragging Shakelton Hardware into the 21st century. To survive, it will be necessary. But, we rest assured that Shakelton Hardware will remain a community institution imbued with its history, celebrating camaraderie, and committed to service. All that is required is your participation and continued loyalty to assure its success.

It's been a pleasure and we thank you! Thanks, Shak!

Joe and Kathy DeForest

Genoa