02/15/2026
Well I've put this off long enough. Although bittersweet I'm happy to say the closing on The Conglomerate building is official. I feel so fortunate to have a new owner who cares about the community and appreciates the building and it's history. The Conglomerate opened in 1981 by Corrine Rasmussen on Route 30. I became the owner in 1992 and moved to Main St in 1998. In the early days I had occasions to bring a selection of clothing and gifts to customers homes when they were unable to get to the store, I had customers who purchased numerous gifts for me to box and wrap for a later pickup, and my favorite was playing Santa for a customer who moved away but wanted gifts from The Conglomerate under her Christmas tree. We shared the holiday for about 15 years. Buying trends certainly changed over the years but I cherish the connections with the people who came through my door all these years sharing recipes, special occasions and our family stories. We weathered flooding, COVID and cancer with family, friends and customers getting me through. Thank you!!! I have attached photos from my last day at the store ; Vroman's Nose from the roof, final cleanup day of this wonderful space and the beautiful watercolor my daughter (Casey Beal Designs) painted for me. Warmed by memories, energized by possibilities. Thank you!
