Great Falls’ history, coffee served up at Storefront University

Downtown Great Falls was a hub of activity Thursday night as people enjoyed the fine weather and took in classes at the fourth annual Storefront University.

By BETH BRITTON
Tribune Business Editor

Sponsored by several local businesses and organizations, Storefront University featured roughly 75 workshops on everything from rock climbing and Web sites to espresso and outdoor grilling. Businesses throughout the downtown area participated.

At Kaufman’s Menswear Centre, 411 Central Ave., Ike Kaufman shared stories of downtown Great Falls businesses and buildings of the past.

Kaufman has extensively researched the blocks between 1st and 7th streets. When mentioning the Brass Rail, he said, "I went there with my father to listen to jazz. I played the trombone, and we listened to my teacher, Pete Peterson."

Kaufman barely stopped for breath as names like the Gerald Cafe, the Silver Dollar, the Alcazar, Hercules Oil & Gas and Elmer’s News rolled off his tongue.

"You people that know a lot of this stuff, I want you to write it down," he told the audience of about 20. "I’d trade anything for that information. I caught flack for not milking this information from my dad."

Wes Swenson, a 28-year resident of Great Falls, said he began his evening at Kaufman’s because he wanted to learn a little more about downtown history.

So did Sharon Wilson.

"This was real nifty," Wilson said as she left the workshop. "It’s fun to learn about early day Great Falls. I’ll certainly come again."

Sandra Goff has lived in town since 1972 and also began her night at Kaufman’s. Later in the evening, she attended workshops at Sofast Communications and the Brighten Up Shop.

At Craft’cetra, 511 Central Ave., owner Sheri Metcalf shared ideas for Halloween decorations, decorative storage units and Christmas decorations with what she said was a good turnout.

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