I’ve been thinking of my hometown of Augusta, Butler County, Kansas. During the 1950’s, there was a sign at the edge of town. In large letters, it said “AUGUSTA” and below that, in smaller characters, it said “Home of 5,000 friends.” The 2020 census said there are now 9,000 people in town. What’s the deal with these extra 4,000 people? Are they retired folks? Are they people who work in Wichita, but want to have a home in a safe and quiet smaller town? Would you call Augusta a “bedroom” community now? Since the refinery and Loadcraft Industries (Spencer’s) are gone, there isn’t much of a need for a large work force. Probably most of the remaining jobs are in the local government administration these days.

I know it’s been a struggle to keep the downtown businesses healthy, but the last I heard, downtown is still viable. I hope that’s true. I always found it fun to visit, and it was also comforting to know that I could enter most any store and know the people who worked there. A person could handle the merchandise and ask questions, and the clerks or owners would happily give answers. They were always generous with their time, and very good about talking with kids as well.  I rode my bike all over town, and I think it’s safe to say that I knew someone on every block.

I know the last couple of years had to be tough for small towns, and I’m guessing the next couple may be hard, too.  Hopefully, the next administration will want to rebuild our democracy and economy. If so, there will be plenty of jobs and opportunities. It isn’t just the infrastructure, either. The people will need to put in a lot of work. The changes must take place in all of us. Don’t forget the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Augusta has always been a comfortable town to live in. I hope that vibe still applies.

Dave Thomas

9/3/2026