To the Editor,

I was raised in the 50’s and 60s. My family had a very modest cabin on east Lake Lida. My mom, brother and sister and I spent our summers there, while dad worked the weekdays at our home in North Dakota.   

We had a neighbor who was retired, and was there most of the summer too. He would often request my help in his lakeside projects. And occasionally we would go to Vergas, to the hardware store to pick up needed items. I was always happy to go there and loved to shop with my friend. 

In our coming and going, I would often look longingly at the restaurant across the street. I saw older men there ,smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee.That infatuated me. I decided then, at about 12 years old, that someday when I was retired, I would like to sit with those guys and discuss whatever needed discussion. 

Fast Forward – I got married and moved to Alaska, where I have spent the last 53 years.

Last August, I took some time to drive around the Minnesota lakes area to reminisce about my life in years gone by.  

Very much on purpose, I came to Vergas. I finally entered the Loons Nest, and saw all of those people from 60 some years ago. I asked the waitress if the men at the next table were the same ones who frequented the cafe daily. When she said yes, I moved over to their table, and explained that I had been waiting for a long time to meet them. 

They were as delighted to meet me as I was them. We discussed all of those important things that needed discussing, and finally went our separate ways. Thank you for waiting for me, gentlemen,and being so receptive to an “old friend.” I hope to be able to return soon, ya never know.

Steve Hanson, 

Alaska