First Amendment Returning to First Love

The saying goes, “All good things must come to an end.” While that might be true, it is best when we get a chance to say when the end comes. That is exactly what Kyle Durniat and her family have been able to do with the First Amendment Public House in Downtown Wooster.  They will be closing the restaurant on December 31, 2015.

When I first heard about First Amendment closing, I was sad. I wouldn’t say I’m a regular there, but I’ve gone frequently enough to have a favorite sandwich (the Rotunda). However, after speaking with Kyle on Tuesday, December 8, I am relieved to know the decision to close was made not due to fiscal reasons, but due to purpose and mission.

Kyle stated that the reason they started First Amendment was to provide a place for public discourse. However, running a successful restaurant was preventing her from doing that which she loves, providing a forum for civil discussion. So when faced with a decision to sign a lease for seven more years or close the doors, the choice was made to close. Kyle says she is enjoying this last month of the restaurant. Customers are stopping in and sharing memories of their time there. But don’t worry, she said the family has plans to offer events for public discussion in other venues.

Speaking of memories of First Amendment, I have a few I want to share:

1. Listening to Live Music–Bobby and I went a couple of times when there was live music at First Amendment. The setting is intimate and acoustics pretty good and loud.
2. Attending a Presentation by Reach Trade—This Coffee Company was started by a group of guys who were friends from Wooster High School. They help farmers from Peru and provide clean water.
3. The Bench Challenge–This is probably my favorite memory. My brother-in-law, Shaun, participated in the Bench Challenge. The challenge was to eat “The Bench” a very large sandwich and tater tots in certain amount of time. When Shaun did the challenge, the record 3:55. Shaun beat that time, by eating it in 3:54. Here are a couple of videos Bobby created about Shaun’s accomplishment. First a quick one (which is still longer than the time it took Shaun to actually eat the sandwich).

 

Here’s a longer version:

If you have memories of First Amendment, please share in the comments below. If you haven’t been to First Amendment or haven’t gone in a awhile, go this month. Because after December 31, 2015, it will only be a happy memory.