This month, Anita Hickey talks with Mickey Russo. Mickey has been a waitress in Concord for about 50 years. Currently, you can say hello to her at the Corner View Restaurant.
Where were you born and raised? I grew up in upper-state New York in a town called Canajoharie. It is the home of Beech-Nut Chewing Gum and Beech-Nut Baby Food.
Why did you leave New York? While attending teacher’s college in Plattsburgh, N.Y., I met my husband, Joe. At the time, Joe was in the military. After I left college, Joe was discharged and we got married. Concord was Joe’s hometown, so our decision to move back here was easy. Joe was an only child, and we wanted to live near his mother. We raised two children, a boy and a girl, and 48 years later we are still living in the north end of the city where we began our life together.
What persuaded you to be a waitress instead of a teacher? When I returned to work, I found that waitressing hours were good for a working mother. . . . as a waitress I was able to set my own hours.
I spent 38 years working at an old Concord restaurant called Weeks Restaurant. What I always loved about being a waitress, are the people. . . I am a people person, so being around customers each day is perfect for me. From high school to the present I have spent a total of 54 years of my life as a waitress. And I loved every moment of it!
As a co-host of a local television show called “The Book Swap Café,” do your customers ask you what is on your “Must Read List”?
Yes, customers come in and tell me about the wonderful books that we review on the television show. I have several customers that take out a notepad and pen then ask me to tell them what they should read next.
Do you find time to volunteer?
I volunteer at the Friendly Kitchen once every other month.
More people are getting involved with helping at the kitchen, and that is fabulous. Volunteering and lending a hand to those others that are down and out can give one a special feeling!
Five years ago when I started working at the kitchen, we would prepare meals for 60 people. Now, we are preparing meals for at least 85.
I also volunteer at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, located at St. Peter’s Church. My faith means a great deal to me, so I volunteer for different committees at the church. I love to bake, so during the holidays, I am responsible for the food table at our holiday fair.
What do you enjoy doing when you have time to relax?
Movies are my thing! I never miss a new movie that comes out. As soon as a movie is released at the local theaters, I am there.
It is upsetting to hear people say that there is nothing to do in Concord. We have so much entertainment that is available for us to enjoy. Perhaps they should take a second look as to what our city has to offer.
How did you feel when you first moved to Concord and how do you feel now? At first you feel somewhat like an outsider. When you overcome that feeling and you make new friends, you may find that the people here are friendly, warm and caring.
Living in Concord has given me so many riches in my life. I am so grateful for all the wonderful people that have become part of my life!
