The Little Building, A Flatiron!

Remembering the Village of Baltic during the 1960's, my teen years, there are many changes.  Even as I moved into the village of Baltic in 1972, it was quaint, although not as many businesses, but people still knew their neighbors  The only noticeable apartments were Harringtons Apartments, which housed strictly Navy personnel.  "The Brothers" did own a number of the duplex houses, but they were not considered "slum lords".  The old Flatiron Building across from Fred's News was a commercial block, their tenant's, the package store, Sprague Sand and Gravel and if my memory holds true, Charron and Delaney had their offices in the building as well.  In later years, the entire Jodoin Block (Flatiron Bldg.) would be apartments.

Flatiron buildings are structures built between 1880 and the early 1920's usually in the Renaissance Revival architectural style.  Their shape much like the flat iron used on clothes, served two purposes: one it gave business districts a type of identity and it efficiently used otherwise useless spaces.  Baltic's little flatiron building did just that.  Today, many of the old flatiron buildings were considered the early skyscrapers, not the case in Baltic.  Former Fred's News customer, Donnie Charron had a few postcards of the early flatiron building, in it's beginnings, only one story tall, hardly a skyscraper, the other floors added later.  As it stands today, I wouldn't call it a skyscraper, but it did identify the village's business district.  Although much has changed for the little building, it no longer home to local businesses, it's sole purpose is homes for a few of Sprague's citizens.  On close inspection, a few of the buildings original architectural designs remain intact.  I did have the opportunity to visit the upstairs apartment that faced Fred's News.  A friend had rented the little place for just a short time, yet my visit to the interior was a pleasant surprise. The elegance of the hallways and staircase amazing, the view from her front window overlooking the Flowers of Fred's News, absolutely stunning.  It was very much a step back in time, the shape of the rooms very much imitating the shape of the building.  One could close their eyes envisioning this little building tucked neatly on a trapezoid shaped lot in early part of the twentieth century, located in a neighborhood in New York City. 

The flatiron building has seen it's share of heartbreak, many of it's earlier apartment dwellers, not model citizens, vandalizing this historic gem.  As each new landlord began renovations, promises were made to improve the building and it's residents, hopefully it is a work in progress that will continue.  The Town has much to offer, look around the villages of the Town,  themselves rough cut gems, awaiting a re-awakening and restoration of their former glory days.

Fred's News Remembered in its Menus!

In our earlier years at Fred's News, menus did not exist.  "The Brothers",  had an old fashioned Coca-Cola sign located on the wall above the coffee-station, patrons simply looked up, ordered, then waited for someone to give a yell, "pick up it's ready!" That was okay, but as the offerings increased, the customer based did the same.  Patrons complained they couldn't read the wall menu from their seats, they'd congregate around the counter, making passage difficult.  The idea of menus at each table was born.  Friend Chris, the original designer,  started the project for her son Matt, hoping to hone his computer skills. Each month a new menu cover, something clever and very much a conversation starter.  One month, there were pictures of everyone's backside, carpenter crack included. The idea was to try and guess who the butt belonged to!  The very last picture..... Mr. Bill's derriere.  One of our young customers asked me quite innocently,"hey lady does that guy have a front?"  Not understanding the question, I asked him to repeat his statement.  This time pointing to the picture, then waving his hand towards the gril,l he repeated the question,"hey lady does that guy have a front?"  I then realized he'd never seen Mr. Bill, who was always facing the grill cooking.  "Yes he does, although this is his good side!"  At least the young boy had correctly identified the picture!

Over the next few months pictures appeared on each new menu.  The faces of the the Egg-Nazi and me super-imposed on the bodies of the famed "Mr. & Mrs. Cornflake" complete with pitch fork, the once thriving Baltic Mills in its' heydey.  This appeared the month following the fire that gutted the old structure.  One of my favorite menus.....a collage of doors, all from different structures located within the Town of Sprague,  Customers had to guess where each door was located.  Although very much a conversation piece, it brought attention to some of Sprague's great architecture.  These photos had long time resident's somewhat baffled, "that can't be in Sprague, I've never seen it."  Well take time to know your Town, look around, you definitely will find it.  These menus became quite the conversation piece and eventually, collector's items.  In fact, Chris could not print enough for the restaurant, so I began creating the menus. It was great fun, although time consuming, yet each month faithful followers would request the new menu for their collections., There were flowers, bears, family photos, customer mug shots, scenic landscapes and a few of the Egg-Nazi and me. They were great fun and I guess maybe they were collectors' items.

Customers from different parts of the world would sometimes visit our little restaurant, each would take a menu and our thank you signature with them.  It was their way of safe-keeping fond memories.  Our Guests from England, loved the Flowers of Fred's News, with a promise to someday return and exchange pictures of his English garden.  He did keep his promise, proving to be a master gardener himself.  Richard Reynolds family returned to "the land down under" with memorabilia from Fred's News, sealing a brief friendship  that we hold dear in our hearts.    

Play Ball!

It's Spring! In the northern areas, daffodil bulbs begin to erupt, their slender green leaves a sure sign of warmer days ahead,  the red buds of spring adding a vibrant color to the otherwise still bleak landscapes, pussy willows making their annual appearance, reminding all Mother Nature is stirring, from her long winter's sleep. In the warmer climates to the south, Spring is in full bloom, garden centers overflowing with everything and every color imaginable.  One would think in the land of the tropical sun, prices should be less expensive.  Depends on the purchase, annuals costing much less here than New England.  Yet, the local garden center here, trying to sell live pussy willow seedlings for $17.95 a pot.  I'd rather pick my own, thank you.

Other signs of Spring are all around.  Baseball, baseball and more baseball, this being the last week of Spring training for major league teams.  They will now leave the confines of their Winter homes, where it has been an exceptionally warm and sunny Spring, heading north and west, many to much cooler temps, others lucky enough to call a warm southern state, home!

Early Spring conversations at Fred's News;  baseball, baseball and of course Boston Red Sox baseball.  Everybody an expert, everybody had an opinion.  It is understandable that Fenway Park is always sold out, the diehard fans that frequented Fred's News just a tiny drop of water in a large pond, yet put all those minuscule drops together and Fenway is overflowing.  Conversations could become ugly, especially if opinions were challenged.  Donnie Charron, perhaps the most endearing of all our Red Sox fans.  Decisions made by management, he took personally,  It was easy to understand Donnie's feelings about his Boston team, he bore the weight of that team on his shoulders........"what was he thinking?" Donnie would lament, as management made choices he wholeheartedly disagreed with.  Mr. Bill would wait for Donnie during baseball season, they would re-hash the previous day's game over and over again, obviously trying to make sense of it all.  Joining them, other Fred's News customers; Mary, Buzzy, Billy B., Ray Hill, Dave S., and yes, Matt Simoneau, who was always at odds with dad Sim, an avid Yankees supporter.  I always felt bad for Mrs. Sim, caught in the middle but very able to hold her own.

Donnie, very much a gentle spirited man, who never seemed to really be upset about anything, yet let the Red Sox loose, that was one really pissed off person.  "Why do I torture myself?" he ask Mr. Bill.  Sorry Donnie, Mr. Bill does the same thing, "Get over it!" I would holler.  Our friend Donnie passed away much too soon, we were trying to remember if he did see the Red Sox win their first world series of his lifetime...sadly we can't.  Yet there is pleasure in knowing, with all the Red Sox fans "in and out" of this world, word most definitely made it through!  My Dad, also a diehard Boston fan, never watched his team win the title "World Champs", yet I know when Mom was reunited with Dad, her first words were "Mickey they finally did it!", Daddy's reply "I know sweetheart wasn't it great!"  Play ball!     

Stop the Warp Speed, Please!

We always count are blessings, we've been lucky...great kids...Happy B-Day Matthew, great marriage, great friends and the list goes on.  Not many couples we have the pleasure of knowing, have worked together side by side for so long.  After we moved to Florida, I began a new career, the Egg-Nazi retired.  I am sure by the time I go back to work after my weekend, he somewhat enjoys the solitude of our home.  This is not an admission that I am a talker (Delaval will jump at this one), but I do keep Mr. Bill going.  Life is about choices, sometimes I do not give him any.  Hey, hey it keeps him young.

After a recent visit from friends Frieda and Del, Mr. Bill and I talked about the customers and friends we know who have worked together, vacationed together and frequented Fred's News together.  Our list is short, forgive me if some are missing, it is not intentional.  Yes, Frieda and Del, high school sweethearts, Frieda a classmate of the Egg-Nazi, have lived, loved and labored together most of their adult years, still very much in love...outstanding.

The Lucarelli's, Jerry and Diane another local couple that have managed to be successful at both marriage and business, Laurel Tire "on the hill but on the level".  Two of the nicest people we've ever known.  They too are close to the Egg-Nazi in the age, with retirement lurking......if it hasn't already dropped by!

Some aren't quite as conventional as others.  Flying off to remote areas,  living, working, writing and purchasing crafts made by "local artisans", the Cheney's have intertwined a number of business ventures...together, through the years.  Great friends dearly missed, great foodies and love the lifestyle.

Angus Park House Innkeepers, Kord and Christine Jablonski have managed to create the most luxurious place to relax, unwind and enjoy life as it was meant to be....remembering back to Kord's first visit to Fred's News, the Egg-Nazi gave new meaning to the phrase, "order what you want, eat what you get!"  Must of been to Kord's liking, he and Christine returned quite often.

While working today, I had, as I always do, numerous opportunities to listen to my Guests.  Many love the idea of name tags announcing your hometown. Listening to the "accent", definitely lets Guests know, I hail from New England, yet they always assume I've been here for years....."Are you and your husband retiring soon?"  "What made you decide on Disney?" "Does he work for Disney?"...all forms of questions, especially those nearing the age of retirement, love to ask.  One interesting woman questioned....."Why did you go back to work...couldn't stay home together?"  It amazes me people think that's the case.....first I've never retired...too young, can't say that too often.  That statement goes along with the steps of life..."How old are you?" I'm four!  "Do you go to school yet?...Nope to little, next year my Mom says I can!  "Hey do you have your license yet?" Nope next year, I'll be sixteen, then Dad says...we'll see!  "Hey let's go out for a drink," can't, not OLD enough,  two weeks I'll be twenty one, then the law says I can, and so on, as we rush the aging process.  Now as I enter the final year of my fifth decade, people says..".how many years before you can retire?"  Whoa baby, slow the clock down...no rush there, no counting years on my part!  It would be nice to spend all my time just "enjoying" life, I do that now!  I am thankful the Egg-Nazi and I enjoyed each others company all day everyday for over twenty years...but if I had to fast-forward the clock just to do it again...no thank you!  There is no such desire in my life.  Strike that comment.......I want time to slow to a snail's pace!

Don't worry Mr. Bill, it's Hereditary!

Did we hear that ya'll had snow last night? ooooo.....weeeee! We are having glorious Spring time weather.  Today's high, maybe eighty-six degrees.  Super great weather, hot dry winds are a blowin' across the peninsula!  The Egg-Nazi's flowers extremely gorgeous, vivid bursts of color adorn every area of the front.  As the sun sets and bits of moisture dampen the flowers, the sweet aromas created by the multitude of blossoms, permeates the air!  What does amaze me is the amount of butterflies we have already seen this year!  Maybe I should request Mr. Bill plant a "butterfly garden".  His flowers are so contagious, with many neighboring homes showing more and more color!

By now I am sure most New Englanders are fed up with this year's weather, the Egg-Nazi speaking with best buddy Ward, (Happy B-day to the big Guy!).  Wardie laments about the weather, Mr. Bill responds with....at least if I don't feel well from treatments, I can always sit out in the Florida warmth watching the "light and airy" clouds just passin' by.  Today, before he could park his butt in the sunshine, the first order of the day....a trip to the ear specialist.  Yes, he has a condition known as Tinnitus or ringing in the ears.  Wimpy Bill has had it for sometime but as of late it seems to have gotten louder.  I convinced him to go after a conversation we had the other night;  he interrupted me by saying, "Answer the G-damn phone!"  I must of looked at him as though he was sporting two heads because as I asked the stupid question, "What the hell are you talking about?"  "It sounded like the phone was ringing," he laughs.  "That's it, dipshit, you are on your way to the ear doctor!"  Of course his reply, "huh"?  Oh how convenient!

Actually the Doctor informed him, it is hereditary, no cure, can be caused by caffeine and working with loud noises.  Between soda, ice tea and coffee, he's got the caffeine cause covered.  The loud noise, he can blame the years at Fred's News, head tucked underneath the hood with that fan roaring!  Jesus, I wish there was a cure, I have to constantly remind him....turn the volume on the TV down.  Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I should have issues, with all the loud noises he creates!  One of these days when he tells me to "answer the G-damn phone", I am going to pick it up, pretend a conversation, then hand it to him..."Oh Mr. Billy...it's for you!"   That ought to screw with his aging mind!  Knowing him, he'll tell me his buddy hung up on him! 

Evolution of Fred's

Seems like forever since I have written.  Busy time of year, Spring has come to the South and is slowly marching northward, should be there by Easter Sunday,  which just happens to be the latest it can possibly be in April.   Easter being associated with Spring, it seems so much more appropriate to celebrate as the warmer weather approaches.  However, the true celebration of the holiday, not about warmer weather and everything turning green, although it is a re-birth!

Back in our earlier years at Fred's News, holidays almost always meant time to decorate, Easter being no exception.  Mr. Bill always had Easter Lilies, Hyacinths, Tulips and all the flowers of Spring, ready for our patrons to purchase.  When the penny candy counter at Fred's News was still "alive", we would make up Easter Baskets, also a last minute gift for patrons to purchase on Easter morning.  Yet everyone would be- gin with a barrage of questions, "when are the flowers returning to the outside, when are the benches coming out?"  Talk about pushing the season, yet in this time of the earth coming alive, everyone wanted everything done, NOW! 

Our first few Sping and Summer seasons at Fred's, we also sold vegetables and strawberries at the little place.  We had a great display stand made by Dave Salemma, that held loads of veggies, sweet corn and tomatoes, the most popular.  It was quite common for patrons to buy one or two ears of corn, requesting it be cooked on the premises along with the rest of their lunch items!  Can't get much fresher than that!  The farmers market would of continued but our local first selectman, who shall remain anonymous, said selling vegetables in an eating establishment was a violation of the health codes......rather than argue, we agreed no  more veggies! We were just starting out in business, local government must be kept "happy!" Patrons moaned, rallying behind us, yet the old bachelor first selectman would not budge....so veggies were removed! 

Throughout our years at Fred's News we offered our public more than food and ambiance, little side businesses or special products would appear: dried flowers, photography, live flowers, pies during the holiday seasons, even a small video store with up-to-date releases, graced the walls of Fred's News.  Tom Abele, deciding he no longer wanted to operate the video stores, sold his stock to us,  Son Mark ran the business, which had quite a list of clientele.  Friday nights at Fred's was "movie night", a first run movie, popcorn and good behavior were the only requirements.  Video rental continued for quite some time, mainly until Mark, reached the age of lack of interest and we needed more seating......it was with great sadness we all  said "bye-[bye" to the video store.   Another local business person, Nelson purchasing the entire contents of the place!  Jewett City Flea Market....their new home!

Mr. Bill and I called these phases, "the evolution of the Fred's Revolution."  "The Brothers" had made the place the pre-cursor to today's convenience store.  The Egg-Nazi and I had definite plans and goals for what we wanted the place to be, but to serve the needs of the public we kept a bit of a "mish mash" of items for awhile, eventually evolving into the Fred"s News everyone came to love.  At times, the journey seemed to travel on rocky roads, yet it evolved into a little place that felt very much like friends sitting in our kitchen, passing the time away.   A way of life, we've yet to finds anyplace we have visited.

Colors of Caring

Although yesterday's color, green, reminding us all that it was St. Patrick's Day, my colors yesterday, a brilliant spectrum of beauty, reminding me of all the wonderfully outstanding things, people and places, our world has to offer. Whether you live in "small town America", the ":Tourist Capital of the World", mid-town Manhattan, the slums of some of the most impoverished places on the planet or a quaint old New England village, the world is a beautiful place. Hearts and memories are made in these places, they should be cherished.  Yet as we read the headlines, we weep for fellow human beings suffering tragedy beyond description, we watch in horror, as stories unfold, each more unbelievably devastating than the last.  Occasionally, out of the rubble and devastation, a miracle arises.  We tend to forget people and places still recovering from tragedy, there are new ones to consume our beings. 

Yesterday I met Hope, a reminder of tragic times in the not too distant past.  Haitian born, too young to remember the devastating earthquake, she is one of the "little miracles" that arises, reminding us there is always a new beginning for all.  Found in the rubble of her former home, in the arms of her dead mother, Hope was taken to a makeshift hospital, then a missionary orphanage. This is where her "new Mommy" found her.  Although a few months pregnant with her second child, Hope's new mom answered the pleas for help, volunteering her services. A nurse, small in stature, she makes up the difference with an outgoing personality and is a fierce defender of the meek and poor, she is a survivor by nature.  Her husband, by her own admissions is "the wind beneath her wings", encouraged her to do what she felt she had to do, staying behind, caring for their two year old toddler.

Hope has a new home, a new Mommy and Daddy, older brother Matthew, now three and an infant sister, Charity.  Older brother "introduced" me to his family.  "Hey lady, this is my first day here, I saw Micky Mouse, you wanna see my sisters?"  As he pointed to the little bundle of a toddler, sitting in the high-chair, he exclaimed, "Yep she's my sister, she don't look like me cause, ummmmm,  Daddy where does she come from?"  Daddy calmly says,  "Matthew she comes from a tiny little place, called Haiti."  Matthew beams, "I know, it's a island."  Surprised, I exclaim, "Well Mr. Matthew, please tell me what an island is!"  Matthew looking very pensive says, "dunno, but Mommy says, it's a beautiful place, my sister is beautiful, Mommy always tells the truth!"  Absolutely young man!

In my world, adoptions are nothing new, myself and sister Patty, two of the luckiest people, blessed with parents that understood, anyone can have children, but to nurture and love, now that is a gift from God, something forever cherished.  Our Fred's News family, a multi-generational group with diverse backgrounds and cultures, included many such families.  Young children from China, Guatemala, Ecuador and all regions of the United States, are blessed to have parents from this small slice of New England "heaven".  I applaud these people, I understand and it gives me great comfort in knowing that the inhabitants of our fragile world, care.  So much is about the "bad things", we protect and over protect, we create barriers, yet my small friend Matthew is a reminder, barriers can be removed.  Just a tidbit....St. Patrick, Ireland's patron saint....born in Wales...! 

   

Oskie...our Friend

Don't really know what made former Fred's News patrons, the Wilcox family pop into my mind, but it did, everything happening for a reason. Perhaps it was a a documentary on deforestation of the rain forest or maybe the logging truck, with the flat tire parked alongside the interstate.  Whatever the thought process, we will go for it. Oskie Wilcox, an old bachelor, now deceased,was the son of Kenyon and Gwen Wilcox.  Charles Oscar, hence the nickname Oskie, a childhood friend of the Egg-Nazi, was very much a gentle-spirited man.  Although he had a shy nature about him, listening to him talk, reminiscing about the village of Baltic, the Scotland Road area, also the location of the family business, Wilcox Sawmill, he seemed much older than his years.  There were times we'd see Oskie regularly, then maybe he'd stay away for a stretch, whatever the reason, none ever offered, he always seemed to pick up the conversation where he had left off on the previous visit.  As his parents aged, Oskie would bring them to the restaurant a few times a week for lunch.  Dad, Kenyon, seemed to have the same nature as Oskie, but could easily fire up the conversation at a moments notice.  He too enjoyed visiting with the older gentleman that congregated soon after the lunch rush was over, although he never overstayed his welcome.

Mr. Bill having grown up on Scotland Road in Norwich, just a short distance from the Village of Baltic, enjoyed Oskie's memories.  Although his conversations were not limited to the past, his up-to-date versions, not delivered with the same twinkle in the eye.  The Egg-Nazi recalls Oskie's high school years, yes, there was a love of his life, whatever the reason, the courtship and romance ceased, leaving Oskie a lonely and perhaps slightly bitter young man.  As the years progressed, that loneliness seemed to consume him, probably the reason he'd stay away for a period of time.  When he would return, nothing seeemed amiss, conversations continued, tidbits of gossip concerning his and the Egg-Nazi's mutual friends, yet he always returned with less of a zest for life and more distant in nature, sitting for longer quiet periods, joining a conversation  only if prodded.

His memory, outstanding!  A birthday never passed without Oskie arriving within a week prior to Mr. Bill's or my birthday.  I once asked him how he remembered, although I understood why he remembered Mr. Bill, they had spent a lifetime together.  As for mine,  I only knew him because of Mr. Bill, yet when I approached him asking, "how do you remember my birthday?", his simple yet heartfelt reply, "Billy has always been my friend and the two of you are a pair, so that makes you my friend as well.  I never forget my friends!"  he then blushed, excused himself and left. 

As the years marched by, his parents passed away, Oskie's depression and zest for life waned.  We saw him less, when we did, it was painful.  He cared little for his own life, stories of the past no longer seemed to lift his spirits.......his health not the best, because of his own lack of interest, diabetes ravaging his body, Oskie passed away much too soon.  We miss him, his colorful memories, twinkling eyes and wonderful friendship.  Each year as our birthdays approach, it seems something reminds us of our friend Oskie.....perhaps it is his way of letting us know........once a friend, always a friend,  the friendship continue!

   

That Spring Forward...Thing

Although I understand time changes, I don't necessarily like or agree with them.  There are many other issues in life that can mess with one's senses, it doesn't need to be a time change. A prime example: last night or to be politically correct, just thirty minutes pass the stroke of midnight, I was finished with labor reports, inventory and anything else that needed to be done.  This allowed me, an ever so rare, but enjoyable opportunity of finishing my work week....early.  Only an hour, nonetheless it was early.  Heading home, with chilly temps, the car windows remaining closed, soulful music surrounding my tired bones, but thoughts of "yippee it's my Friday, I'm an hour early!" consuming my thoughts.  As I drive, reaching the outer limits of the tourist's area, the highway becomes quiet, no lights, no billboards, just the beautiful starry night with an occasional headlight in the distance.  Our Florida sky is so expansive, so easy to find the constellations.  Small shooting stars often seen, don't forget, "to wish upon a star", fills my mind with childhood memories of laying in the summer grasses of our backyard, looking up, just gazing at the star filled heavens in amazement. Absolutely soothing, it afford the body soothing serenity, an adjustment, a time to unwind.  Mr. Bill often questions....."aren't you so tired driving home.  Please be careful not to fall asleep!"  Sleep! When there is so much to look at, to wonder about, the heavens are an eternity.  The expansiveness of the sky totally consumed and perfectly arranged by the twinkle of millions of the diamond-like jewels, seemingly attached to lush velvet blackness that never ends.   Much like snowflakes that fall in the cold climates, the kaleidoscope of stars appearing in my sky seem to change with every breath I take.  None are the same!

Memories of my early mornings at Fred's News always include the sky.  But as the seasons come and go,the fact is we MUST change our clocks.  So, my hour departure from work has made my attitude somewhat smug until I reach home, realizing it is Sunday morning, my day off and I've already lost an hour.  So really, I am arriving home at my USUAL hour!  That does mess with my head.  The beauty and serenity of the ride, now just a distant memory, I am still home, late and I've lost an hour of my day off...Oh bugger, Mother Nature screwing with me again.

Time changes at Fred's, for the most part, went smooth.  Always a number of constants you could count on....Spring forward....the Sunday papers would be late.  Not just the hour late, but LATE!  Obviously the time change screwing with someone else's senses.  Fall back, the papers would be waiting for me....half of them missing although I never understood the justification for that.  More than likely, it was just because......!   Fall back...everyone arrived early and I mean everyone.  A true Sunday morning rush,  starting at the ass-crack of dawn, probably a good thing we enjoyed the extra hour sleep.  Sunday morning help, still fashionably late...justification.....just because!   Spring forward....we never got the Sunday morning papers, Mr. Bill lamenting, "it will be the afternoon edition, for God's sake"!  Justification...just because!   Help would arrive more than fashionably late...just because! Obviously, I am not the only person, that finds time changes twice a year...not so good.  Mother Nature provides us with such beauty, yet on the flip-side, she "taketh away!"   

"Family" Concerns

Conversations at Fred's News usually revolved around newsworthy events, local happenings or good old fashioned gossip.  We recalled 9/11 and how patrons huddled together as one big family, waiting, watching and listening to the old TV, perched high on it's shelf, in the back of Fred's News.  Most places have the new flat screened TV, but at Fred's, the TV was not the main focus of the visit. Although food was more of a reason to stop by, friendship and strong "family ties" were a major draw.  If you stopped by only for a moment, it was a great way to make your day.  Seeing friends and perhaps family, catching up on the local happenings or just passing time, Fred's News was a hot spot.

Just as world events shape our lives, cause concerns and untimely worries, sharing it with your Fred's News family was, in fact, a way of coping.  Yes, we watched the horrors of 9/11, the tragic funeral of the beloved Princess Diana, and after receiving a phone call from son Mark in Florida, the tragic space shuttle Columbia's unsuccessful re-entry into the earth's atmosphere.  Although the TV was watched more for sports, weather or other entertainment, the tragedies viewed by the Fred's News patrons will always be remembered. Sometimes, sharing these devastating moments in a safe secure and friendly atmosphere, helps alleviate unnecessary worrying.

Recent events in Japan, the earthquake and tsunami are just such an event.  Early morning arrivals at Fred's would of been our first "on the scene" reporters, telling us to turn on the TV.  Breaking news is all over the channels.  From that point on, with each visitor, increased coverage would begin.  As we sit here in Florida watching these events unfold, it hard to leave the continual coverage, each new photo and report more heart wrenching than the other.  Yet, amazing how many emails I have received about the earthquake, yes, many of the questions do involve my current employer Disney and there Disney Tokyo park, but the "family" continues to check in.  With each message received, the update of their own lives, continues. There is comfort in knowing, "once a family, always a family!"    

Ode to the Toasters!

Doesn't happen too often but today was just a down right soggy, gloomy day.  Clouds lingered for the better part of the day, although the rains ceased around noon time, with a brisk wind from the north, making for much chillier temps than the past week.  By Florida standards, it was so....un-tropical.  On the flip side...if one hailed from the colder climates to our north....today, much like the April showers, that bring the you know-whats-in-May!

The inclement weather good for appetites, making for quite the chaotic morning.  Much like the busy mornings at Fred's News, someone or something always stood out "in the or at the crowd".  That not so appetizing aroma of burnt toast, waifed through the dining room this morning, stirring up memories of those over used, pain in the butt toasters, probably still sitting in their final resting places, within the hauntingly quiet walls of the former Fred's News.  Interestingly enough, those little toaster more than paid for themselves......and oh the abuse! They deserve more than they got...should have been bronzed and mounted, as a final tribute for their faithful years.  Poked, prodded, slammed, turned upside, shaken until they spewed forth the entire contents of their innards,yet much like the "pink bunny" they took a "lickin and kept on tickin!" Even when they tried to just quit or lay down and die, we resisted their pleas.   Adding insult to injury, their own family let.....that greasy, grimy Johann, the Nephew....Great, violate them.  Dear God, what were we thinking! 

Patrons learned early on, "ya see smoke" billowing from the toaster area, first, head to the nearest smoke detector, take out the battery, THEN and only THEN, holler..."hit the toaster!"  Most people walking by the restaurant knew, all too well, that smell of burnt toast. Kathleen, always the artsy environmentality advocate, found wonderful use for burnt toast......Christmas Ornaments...oh soooooo thoughtful and definitely one of a kind.  With the amount of burnt bread, Fred's News could of mass produced these ornaments...probably would of sold well at Walmart during the holiday season.  When the season was over, hang them outside for our feathered friends, although I am sure they'd still be there in the Spring, even John and Rocco Carboni admitted they'd had enough burnt toast to last a lifetime....!! 

So this morning as a Guest approached me with the look of concern, a word need not be spoken, that all too familiar aroma had suddenly violated my air space.  "We have a fire in the toaster!"  she tried to calmly report, but the look of concern told me otherwise.  As I rounded the corner, I heard the sound of coughs and someone yelling, "where is the plug, pull the plug!"   Other family members were attacking the poor toaster with plastic utensils, which by the way were disfigured from the heat and adding to the aroma.  As if that weren't enough, this "odoriffic" smell now being transported to other parts of the hotel via the air ducts.  As I walked towards the Guests doing harm to the toaster, I remained surprisingly calm, having travelled this road many times before....".Please stand back from the toaster, it will be fine." I reassure the crowd now holding their pool towels over their noses.  As I retrieve the burnt object from the "guts" of the poor toaster, I realize, it is not your ordinary piece on bread, but the burnt remains of a cheese danish!  I will not write what I wanted to say, we do know one can warm a danish in the microwave, ironically that correct piece of equipment was located right next to the smoking toaster!  Enough said.  My only thoughts were, if anyone staying at the Lodge had ever visited Fred's News, they would of recognized the smell. Kathleen, if you would like to retire in Florida, perhaps I can persuade you to begin marketing burnt toast or pastry ornaments...we've got a much larger clientele NOW!

That Inner Circle....Friends

"The Brothers", Emil and Fred, born and raised in Baltic, had a set group of friends. Young men,  friends from adolescence, all their relationships matured into a lifetime of friendship. Some were part of the group that formed the Mukluk Club, but the bond between these friends was solidified years earlier.  It's funny how they talked about their earlier years, so nonchalant, at times it seemed as though it wouldn't have mattered if they were friends or not, but for those that knew them,the truth was evident.   A funny bunch of friends from all walks of life, yet truly a brotherhood with connections.  If favors were needed, markers were called in...a done deal.  They'd laugh, joke and take great pride in stories, "hey Emil, tell about your tour of duty in North Africa during WWII, where you made big bucks!"  They'd laugh as if it were a joke, but the bottom line....dead serious business.  These gentlemen joked non-stop, told whopping big stories, made people laugh, but they ran a family business...a serious family business. 

Pin-ball machines, juke boxes, slot machines, and yes, card games........stories unfolded, each time exactly as before, but if you listened, the real stories emerged.  One learned, NEVER ask questions....just listen.  Much the same applied when "the brothers" decided to sell Fred's News.  No questions asked......except for one, "did we want to buy the place?"  Yes, it would not be offered more than once, there would be no further discussions.  Emil told us in later years, "he had chosen wisely."  We would of liked to ask the meaning of the statement, but no questions were asked....it was a given, he meant it as a compliment.  Emil visited often, had favorite meals, enjoyed sitting with his cronies, talking about the shape of the world, laughing at memories, soaking up the ambiance.  As each friend passed, the remaining would have an iced tea in memory of the dearly departed, returning to the conversation at hand, as though nothing had changed.  If there was any sorrow or a time of mourning, it was done privately. I often wondered if private meetings were arranged for just such a reason, but the law ......don't ask.  Occasionally bits and pieces would emerge.   As old Fred passed away unexpectedly, friends filled Fred's News, stories, all comical, filled the place.  People laughed, reminised, wondered....secretly, those out of the inner circle asked questions amongst themselves. none of which were ever answered, at least not by us.  Fred's lifelong partner, Barbara visited late one afternoon.  As we readied the little place for closing, she confided, "I miss him so much, he was the love of my life.  Yes, I will never have to worry, he promised he'd take care of me, he has.  But I am so pissed off at that old bastard for leaving me way too soon........."  with that a single tear trickled down her cheek.  Enough said....life continues.

Unwanted Visitors at Freds

There are times I sit in front of my little computer, thoughts somewhat arranged in my mind, but can't seem to let the ideas flow from the brain to the fingers, poised ready, waiting and wanting to do "their thing ".  Frantically I begin searching for some sort of inspiration, please let the words come.  Trying to focus on my thoughts only seems to cause more confusion.  It's pretty sad when you can't even control your own mind! So, I walk away.  Looking out the kitchen window, I focus, much like my mighty owl hunter, on movement. Nothing, yet a strange almost eery rope like object, gently swaying in the breeze catches my attention.  With the multi shades of greens now blossoming in the preserve, the object seems to disappear and reappear continually.  With my owl perched twenty feet away, any human movement my send the mighty hunter a warning.  He too is focused on this object.  Slowly I move away from the window, the binoculars within reach, I might be able to identify our long unknown hanging object.  Looking through the binoculars, I now realize the owl's reason for such intense studying....my object is quite possible going to be his next meal.  This SNAKE has been slithering through the branches, ocassionally stopping, listening, not wanting to be some animals's breakfast, he moves ever so cautiously.  So I watch, waiting for this scene to play out. 

Their seems to be an intermission in the drama unfolding outside my window, but my thoughts have turned to Baltic and the the little brook that flowed along side of Fred's News.  Beaver Brook was home to many snakes.  In early Spring our young patrons patiently awaited their return.  Many times the snakes would be perched on the rocks sticking out of the brook or the edge of the restaurant's foundation.  Perfect place to soak up the warm rays of sunshine. Snake sightings in the brook was a sure sign Spring had arrived!  Mr. Bill not so happy, snakes not his favorite, he avoids them at all times.  Unless of course they see him first.  Rarely did the snakes appear in the driveway, but for some odd reason, one year they preferred to sun themselves up there.  The back dock or steps of Fred's News back entrance, also a favorite sunbathing area.  Much to the dismay of Mr. Bill, these slithering reptiles scared the hell out of him.  One afternoon, he is carrying trash to the dumpster, doesn't see a snake on the back ramp until he almost steps on it. Trying to avoid contact, a series of events unfolds, resulting in Mr. Bill falling off the ramp, into a puddle, skinning his knees as he hits the gravel driveway, rolling over into a puddle,  As he returned to the restaurant, whining all the way, not  making any sense, Todd and I heard the word SNAKES.   Heading outside I look for the reptile, which of course had quickly slithered back to the brook. Understand, if I were the snake about to be crushed by a size thirteen, or even worse, sat on by the falling two hundred thirty pound body of the Egg-Nazi, I too, would have returned to the safety of the brook, at lightening speed.

Beaver Brook, also home to many of the little field mice, that seemed to sneak into Fred's News, during the cold New England winter months.  At the first sign the intruders had returned,  traps of all kinds were set.  Some however, would make a "run for it" rather than succomb to an untimely death.  Most of the critters were in the basement, but ocassionally, a rogue would break free and appear in the restaurant.  In the twenty plus years at Fred's, only once did an itzy bitzy mouse make an appearance....during breakfast, his run for freedom began.  Some never saw or felt him as he ran over their feet.  They were just cozied up to the counter, sipping their coffee.  Some tried to catch the bad boy, others screamed.....his sprint, a galliant effort.  He disappeared, only to reappear in the traps the following day.....stiff as a board, his last meal, peanut butter laced bacon.

Again I sneak a look out my window, the owl's gaze fixed on the snake, but I sense drama about to come to an end.  The gentle breeze is now more a wind, the snake's protective leaf cover, blown aside.  I hear a screech, not my owl but another large feathered hunter, the mighty clawed Osprey, swoops in, grabbing the snake, disappearing above the canopy of the preserve. Looking at the owl, I realize, he is sleepy and probably digesting his evening meal.  Tonight while the Osprey settles into his nest, the majestic owl will once again rule the preserve. 

There is a Time and Place........When it's Necessary!

It's always exciting to see people from Connecticut visiting Florida.  Sightings most likely occurring at Disney, rarely a week going by without such a sighting.  However, when some one approaches you..."I know you, we've spoken before....I think it was at another one of the Disney resorts!", you know you've definitely been around for a while!   Such was the case yesterday, when a Guest approaches, saying I remember you from Disney's French Quarter.....funny, I did remember her!  Scary the memory of our first meeting, not so good.  That flashback left me wondering.......is it going to be Deja Vu!  Thirty seconds into the conversation....I can breathe easy....today, the "happy Gods" are looking down upon me with great favor!

Yes, we miss Fred's News, family, friends unexpected moments that are now cherished memories, yet there is a flip-side.  So for a moment we will journey to the "dark-side!"  Names will be left out although I can't imagine why, I am sure they plastered our names "in vain" all over the place.  As business owners we tried to please our patrons, always serving the very best.  Admittedly conversations at times could be heated, but the service and product, the very best.  Example:  Young lady calls in her order on a busy, choatic Sunday morning.  "Give me a Ham & Cheese omelet, home fries and toast.  I'll be right there to pick it up"  Click! 
First of all, on such a crazy morning, the  "I'll be right there to pick it up", isn't going to happen.  Although no name was given, the disconnect happening prematurely, I did recognize the voice....my immediate reaction as the phone line disconnected........BITCH! 

Within five minutes, Guess Who shows up......"I'll take this one",  "I just ordered a Ham & Cheese omelet, how much?"  As I explain the situation to this young woman, "it will be ready in fifteen minutes", words cannot describe what flowed from her lips.   I asked her to leave, more words flowed, I learned new ways to group such vulgarities together, although I cannot imagine why I would unless perhaps I was conversing with her, fat chance!  "My sister will be back to get it in fifteen minutes!"  Wonderful, BITCH number two, wonder if she can tell time better than you know who?  Yes, the order was made, yes, number two picked it up, yes number one called,  of course, to BITCH.  "You are trying to kill me, I found a mushroom in my homefries.  I can die if I eat one of those!  I am going to sue your ass, that place is going to be mine!"  Of course it never happened, one can only hope she would consume mushrooms soon (sorry!), but one would think, that would be the first thing out of her mouth, "I have an allergy"  Even if she grouped it with vulgarities, she would of  made us aware!  At the next week's phone order, I asked her to dine elsewhere, we could not insure "mushrooms" would not find their way into her food, as tempting as the idea might be!

Fred's News, the building......OLD.  The public restroom...OLD.  One must remember the original design of the building.....Out houses, out yonder.  So, with that in mind, quite understandable a patron would be upset for a few reasons.  The bathroom was co-ed, also not required by law to exist.  Someone breaks the toilet, at the busiest moment possible, OUT OF ORDER mode begins.  Very next patron..."Hey I need a bathroom" he snarls.  Jokingly I  respond, "me too, ours in broken!"  I thought it to be a quick comeback, Snarley Face....not so much.  "I'm calling the health dept. (he did), we'll close this place down! (they did not)"  Still determined in seeking revenge, "I'm calling my lawyer, I am going to sue your ass!"  First of all with all the pooh-pooh flowing like diarrhea from his mouth, he couldn't possibly of needed a bathroom any more.  Second, neither myself nor my patrons need to witness ridiculous outbursts like that.    The man left,  returning the following week.  Funny how people remember idiots like that......"Diane, that you know who is back.  What are you going to do?"  This foul mouth person was sitting at the table in the beloved "PARIS WINDOW."  That being reason enough to demand he leave, I approached him, "excuse me, but I am asking you to leave immediately.  Your last visit, not one I wish to repeat.  Neither I, my employees or patrons, wish to hear such language or witness your disgusting behavior again.  Please leave now!" As he tried to release verbal abuse...my outside voice rose from within....."Get out NOW or I call the State Police!"  Mr. Bill almost cracked his skull on the stainless hood as he heard my voice...."What the hell is is going on...oh it's you again Asshole, you heard my wife, get out!"   I reached for the phone, he exited the premises.  Cheers from the patrons, but "Me thinks Mr. Bill 's profanity..... Hmmmm,  absolutely disgusting but joyously appropriate!"

Social Networking

Everywhere you look, people are connected, with ear buds now part of the wardrobe!  People walking down the street, talking to themselves, at one time labeled wacky and strange, are now the norm, (Crazy Bruce, Root Beer and a number of other Baltic looney tunes were ahead of their times!), we don't always notice the hands free stuck in their ear.  Head to a public bathroom, people in the individual stall, talking on cell phones, with the mindset, the stall prevents EVERYONE from hearing the conversation!

The leaps and bounds in technology have created a society that no longer converses face to face, the younger generation almost afraid of visual contact!  Fred's News was all about the senses, whether sight, smell, touch or hearing, it was delivered in overload proportions. Yet, I believe it was a learning experience for many.  Shyness was overcome, opinions were voiced, mostly every one's opinions were respected, even if challenged, they were respected.  Much like the media talk shows of evening television, everyone talking at the same time, Fred's news was a hub of social activity.  Although manners were preferred, not everyone felt the same about the interruption process.  Many times the rudeness of interrupting, a necessary part of an ongoing conversation.  An "outside voice" usually beneficial....myself, Delaval, Thelma her Majesty, the Patties, Ms. Morning Mary and the Buzz-Man, also blessed with the vocal chords of a "Big-Mouth.  Mr. Bill often thinking, he could out talk, out yell and "win" a discussion, was merely a "baby" in training, his vocal chords severely "damaged" by years of smoking the turd smelling cigars, more often "throwing the towel in" on lively conversations.  He would return to his grill, head tucked neatly under the hood fan, withdrawing to familiar territory.  He enjoyed people thinking he couldn't hear the conversations erupting behind his back.  The Egg-Nazi definitely has refined his selective hearing process, using it to his advantage even now.

Our young people working the weekends might have been shy their first few times "on Stage" at Fred's News, but that shyness needed to be overcome quickly, a definite sink or swim process.  Yet the nurturing personalities of many customers, made the process for these young people actually quite easy.  Faced with a barrage of questions, the process screamed "interactions please".  Just as our regulars grilled new customers, the process repeated for new employees, just a softer side of interrogation.  "Hey I remember you as a toddler, you can't possibly be old enough to work!?"  What they really wanted to ask:
Hey kid are you old enough to work? You aren't sixteen!"  "You're right, I'm fifteen and ten months, in the State of Connecticut, that's legal!"  The surprised look of the interrogator, priceless!.  They must of thought, this kid is savvy!  Well let's put that rumor to rest.....truth be known, we never let any new employee out on the floor, without strict instructions......."They're going to question you, be ready, don't let them know you're shaking in your boots, give them a confident answer, they'll be-friend you for life!  Couldn't send those babies out "to the wolves" without a reassuring love pat!    

Just a Big Kid!

Today's early morning discussions while enjoying a hot cup of coffee, centered around recent visits from friends up north.  This past weekend Gracie Baby, now residing in Florida near Venice Beach, made the trip to Disney, with son Roger and friend.  The respective husbands, Mr. Bill and Roger Sr. opting to stay put at home.  Gracie-Baby says, with animals now part of the household, overnight stays out of the question.  Mr. Bill on the other hand, not feeling in tip top shape this past weekend.  So it was a time for Gracie and I to catch up on happenings to the North. 

Last weekend, Mr. Bill and I spent some much needed time at Disney, enjoying Mrs. G.'s granddaughters. Although the twins quite used to their "Billy", little Lena not quite sure about this rather strange,over grown kid her "sister cousins" lovingly adore. The twins having known Mr. Bill since birth, growing up with his wise-cracking, strange wardrobe choices, always the white golf socks and sandal, just like their Grandpa, are the norm for their Billy.

Heath issues over the years, have plagued Mr. Bill, thankfully, most just part of the aging process.  His cigar smoking has been the root of many of the health issues, yet it is something he dearly misses.  The first health issue caused by this disgustingly smelly habit....infected gums in his mouth.   Fact is...... he always chomped down on the wooden tipped cigars, causing a splinter to become embedded in his gums, creating a massive infection, resulting in bone loss and perfectly good teeth, didn't seem to changed his love affair with cigar smoking.  Thank you Forrest Gump "Stupid is as stupid does!"   As Doc Dyer informed him, good teeth would be replaced by a partial plate, I could see the wheels turning "I'll still be able to smoke my cigars!"  Fast forwarding to the "new teeth", it created a whole new world for  "Billy...the big kid".  He became the master of scaring little kids, popping out his teeth right before innocent little eyes.  The twins, always yelling..."Billy take out your teeth", to their delight, he'd oblige.  Early one morning, all the regular customers sitting in their usual places at Fred's News, Glenn sitting at one of the tables, in comes Gary, aka Doc, with young son Joel in tow. At the most impressionable age of four, Joel observed everything around him.  Not saying a word just watching, listening, taking it all in.  Mr.  Bill decides.....Let's see if we can get Joel's attention, he delivers the food, himself, directly to Joel.  As Joel continues to give the Egg-Nazi that "once over look", Mr. Bill pushes out his upper partial plate.  Joel's look of utter amazement, "priceless". He was also speechless.  I cannot even begin to imagine what was going through that young child's mind, although Doc reports, "Joel explanation to his Mom, take care of your teeth, we need to go to the dentist!"

As we sat dining with Mr. G and family, little Lena giving Mr. Bill that same "once over look".  Not too sure about this man everyone seems to be talking to, she remains quiet watching his every move.  Although, I could not see Mr. Bill's face, the wide-eyed horrified look that appeared on Lena's face told the entire story.   "Mr. Bill put those G-damn teeth back in your mouth!" Priceless!!!  

Smoking...Very Bad for Your Health and Future!

Funny how things do jog your memory and I sincerely appreciate when someone sends a message.....remember when this happened, or do you remember this person, whatever happened to them.  Those type comments always allow my memory a chance to re-boot, whatever spews forth is written about.  Well maybe there are some stories needing to remain suspended in anonymity, only to protect the innocent. Then there are those who cry innocent but many know differently. 

Many years ago, but during our Fred's News years, a series of burglaries as well as vandalism incidences were on the rise is Sprague.  Our resident trooper, worked diligently to find and arrest the culprits. Early one morning as we readied Fred's News for its usual early morning opening, a State Police cruiser pulled up to front door entrance of the restaurant. Although not a first time event, it was odd that he asked to come in early.  After apologizing for the inconvenience he said questions were necessary, a robbery had occurred at St. Joseph's School, just a few hundred feet north of the restaurant.  He confided, the office had been broken into, the safe had been stolen, a few other objects taken, along with minor vandalism.  Not being sure of the exact time the crime had been committed, he'd hoped we might of seen or heard something...anything.  Did we hear anyone talking, did we have a possible suspect in mind....all his questions geared along those lines.  No, we did not hear voices, but if it were young people, past experiences told us......they'd like to brag.  We assured him, if they'd managed to get the safe open, extra money might show up at Fred's News.  He thanked us, left his contact numbers and drove away.

As we opened that morning, numerous early morning patrons remarked as well as questioned, "Hey, there are State Police cars at St. Joe's School.........any idea what's going on?"  Of course, the story told and re-told many times over.  Yet, no one in particular or out of the ordinary stopped in to spend money....money they didn't normally have.  Troopers returned, more questions, more ideas thrown around, a few suspects beginning to emerge.  The Egg-Nazi and I had comprised a "short-list" of our own suspects, smooth talkers that might perhaps fit the bill.  With-in a few hours the troopers again returned, this time we told him we had a list of who we thought might be capable of the crime.  Since no clear cut clues stood out....they listened.  Although our list had three people, one of the suspects also appeared on their list.  Finding that odd, they questioned our reasoning. We told them, the mutual suspect, a young teen, lived very close by, was a very well mannered young man, but had been in trouble many times.  They agreed, their reason for putting him on their list as well.  One of the troopers mentioned he had questioned the youth's mother, she said he had been home all evening.......Mom had been known to cover for her troubled child before.  As new clues emerged, the police almost certain this was "their man", yet the youngster,  a tough nut to crack.   By some stroke of genius, the trooper mentioned whoever had broken into the school, smoked, having left their crushed cigarette butts all over the office and hallway floors.  Knowing this young suspect smoked, his older brother providing him with cigarettes, I knew the kind he preferred, they were purchased at Fred's News.  "If they are Marlboro, then you've got your man!" I laughed.  Not saying a word, the troopers left.  Within a couple of hours, word trickled down to Fred's News our"short-list" suspect had been arrested for the crime.  He did admit to the crime, only after they revealed he had left behind cigarette butts........Yes, smoking IS very bad for your health and future!