Other news besides the snow storm

Tom Brady is retiring at the age of 44 with 7 Super Bowl rings.

Thanks for the memories

COMFORTABLE AS AN OLD SHOE: MR. MONDELLO EPONYMOUS SHOE REPAIR SHOP AROUND THE CORNER CLOSES. HE’S TAKING EARLY RETIREMENT AT 93! CRUZ FERRERAS PENS A BEAUTIFUL THANKS #GLOUCESTERMA

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is july-2018_-mondello-shoe-repair-shop_a-fixture-in-gloucester-massachusetts_-owner-a-veteran_photograph-copyright-cruz-ferreras-6.jpg

Cruz Ferreras writes:

The end of an era. Are you hearing that often lately? I am. A bit too many ends of eras.

Yesterday was a rainy day. My husband realized that his rubber rain boots have a puncture that lets water in the foot-bed. He said he thought he needed new boots. I said he should take them to Mr. Mondello first, because he would most likely find a way to plug the leak with melted rubber and extend the life of the boots for at least one more Autumn. And for just a few bucks.

Today a friend texted me news that due to Covid-19 Mr. Mondello took an early retirement at 93! A proud veteran, Mr. M. was always eager to share his background with customers at his cobbler shop. He has an unassuming sense of humor and the solid presence that 90 plus years of a productive life gives a person regardless of physical strength or frailty. Mr. M. looked like a solid man behind the counter. After a little chat he would ask for a very brief description of what was wrong with your shoes:

I need to stretch them.

I need the soles re-glued.

I need more holes on the straps.

Check!

Check!

Check!

I need rain boots plugged…no Mr. Mondello’s shop. No check. No apprentice to take over the shop, I bet. That’s too bad. One more win for the vortex of throw away culture we get swept into.

I wish Mr. Mondello the best and healthiest of retirement. He has earned it. A town needs a cobbler. We had as good as they come.

Cruz Ferreras thanks and best wishes in retirement for Mr. Mondello September 2020

Message and all photographs this post by Cruz Ferreras. The photographs were taken in July 2018.

Dr. Silvester R. Smith has Announced his Retirement as Podiatrist

Dr. Silvester R. Smith, DPM has announced his retirement as Podiatrist, ending a 60-year career.

Dr. Smith started his practice in 1954 at 1 School Street in Gloucester, Massachusetts. He ran his business solely as Podiatrist, Receptionist and Accountant. He had many long-time patients where he developed friendly relationships and looked forward to their visits to catch up on their family and happenings in their lives. When he was not in his office, he was making house calls at many local area nursing homes.

Dr. Smith experienced a setback on in December 2008 when the Lorraine Building, where his office was situated, was consumed by fire. Although a disheartening event, he was quick to find another location at 199 Main Street in Gloucester where he has practiced the last 6 years. He enjoyed the new location as there were frequent walk-ins and lots of activity.

Dr. Smith and his wife reside in West Gloucester. He is well known in the Gloucester community. He looks forward to participating in local events such as the annual Fishtown Horribles Parade. Of the 14 times he participated walking the parade route, his favorite was the year he walked twice, once in the AMVET contingency, and then again following the parade theme “Toys of the 20s” where he pedaled his 1920s era scooter. Dr. Smith also participates in the annual ceremonies and parades each May and November in honor of the Veterans and proudly wears his uniform from his term in the U.S Army Air Corps.

Dr. Smith’s retirement takes effect January 1, 2015 where he will spend more time with family and friends and enjoying his countless hobbies including general farming activities, raising chickens, gardening, woodworking, reading, writing and creative projects.

Ambie’s Smile Lives Into Retirement

Ambie is enjoying his retirement from UPS, selling his sausage, and doing a little lobstering, and spending time with his family.

IMG_5590