The collective dream of Harvard’s citizenry is about to come true: The General Store is poised for a springtime opening. And the dreams of the owners, Adam and Lyn Horowitz, seem to dovetail with what residents have been hoping for: a gathering place in the center of town that hearkens back to a time when the pace of life was slower; a place to pick up a quick lunch or grab a good cup of coffee; a place to stop for an ice cream cone; a place where local producers can sell honey, maple syrup, preserves, baked goods, and more. The owners even envision some kind of boutique on the second floor.

The Horowitzes have already made a significant investment in the store, despite the uncertainty of what the town may or may not allow in the future, and the uncertainty of a septic solution for town center. They have invested not only with dollars, but also, as they said, with good will.

A revitalized General Store could be the “anchor” to a rejuvenated town center. But that will only work if the owners’ goodwill is reciprocated by the people of Harvard—if people really do stop there for coffee, ice cream, baked goods, or what have you.

We share the sentiments of the store’s former owner, Joyce Garrick, who said in an interview this week, “I hope the town supports what they do.”