To the Editor:

You’ve all heard by now that the owners of Smith’s Tavern in Voorheesville have decided to retire and are selling to Stewart’s Shops.

I invite one and all to come to a public meeting (next week, Tuesday, March 14, at 7 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Church in Voorheesville) and show your support for the owners of Smith’s Tavern’s right to sell their business and Stewart’s right to develop a convenience store and gas station at 112 Maple Ave. — a legally zoned commercial property.

If you can’t attend, perhaps you can write your thoughts to the village.

As co-owner of Smith’s Tavern, I believe we are selling to a fine and upstanding company.

Here is my take and experience: Friendly service, fair convenience-store pricing and good selection, competitive gasoline pricing, easy in and out, impressive looking new stores, one of the region’s larger employers, and Stewart’s is known to be very generous in giving back to the community.

Stewart’s a great coffee selection and for sure their ice cream is as good as it gets and is currently the only place in the village where you can walk in and walk out with a cone or a sundae.

Yes, the end will be a sad day for all, and for me as well. I personally empathise with all those who oppose our deal. I know your feelings are real.

I also know that many folks are simply against change. I say to them: I have seen in my 72 years that change can be and often is positive. It is inevitable no matter where one lives.

And, for the very many customers and friends who have said to me throughout this long village approval process: “But what am I going to do?” (no 5 p.m. gathering or no Smitty’s pizza) I can only say, “You’ll be OK.”

It’s been 26 years.

My family is calling

I must go.

Jon A. McClelland, co-owner

Smith’s Tavern

Voorheesville