Sideline Stories: Margaret Noel, Director, Augusta Civic Center’s 50th Anniversary

In January 1973, the Augusta Civic Center opened its doors for the first time. Since then, the City of Augusta and its surrounding communities have enjoyed 50 years of sporting events, concerts, trade shows, weddings, graduations, and beautiful memories. As we plan our 50^th Anniversary Celebration, I have been hit with these glorious memories. Growing up in Augusta, I had many opportunities to visit this storied venue. My visits there are some of my fondest memories. I attended my best friend’s wedding in the North Wing Ballroom; I saw Liberace with my parents and was able to approach the stage and shake his hand. He let me touch his fur coat – a huge deal for a seven-year-old! My father waited two days in line for Elvis; I saw Kenny Rogers, Bryan Adams, and Boston in concert. I graduated from Cony High School at the Augusta Civic Center, watched many basketball games, attended the Harlem Globetrotters, and watched my mother receive a well-deserved service award from her employer at a luncheon. I sang the Star Spangled Banner as part of the Cony High School Madrigals and bought many holiday presents at the annual craft fairs. I later became an employee!

Now, as Director, I work to keep the memories alive and will be part of its 50^th Anniversary while working with some of the best people I have worked with throughout my career. I am honored to be able to watch others make their memories and share their milestones. I am privileged to welcome them back for a visit where they reminisce.

As our team rolls into 2023, (hopefully with COVID-19 in our rearview mirror with regards to events), you’re invited to join us in recalling and sharing your favorite memories as we celebrate 50 years of the Augusta Civic Center. This venue is a gem in the Augusta community, and we look forward to seeing what the next 50 years bring! We are still at your service, serving up memories, one event at a time!

For information on our upcoming 50^th Anniversary Event Series, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, or visit our website at https://link.edgepilot.com/s/d3f3da40/_28UHzKlu0isdzCETiZNiw?u=http://www.augustaciviccenter.org/. Better yet, stop in and see us and share your memories!