It was the last Saturday at Oakwood Hardware. Anne Sorrenti was outside her ice cream place at the back. Families were saying goodbye and thank you. Anne called out to one family with a baby and a toddler and said she’ll get a gluten-free bagel for the dad and a pickle specialty for the mom. “You remembered! That’s what I had during my pregnancy,” said the mom. Dad said Oakwood Hardware “was like a warm hug on a cold day.”
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People in Oakwood Village started a GoFundMe campaign to help Anne land on her feet. Closing a restaurant is expensive and organizers want to give Anne peace of mind as she shuts down and thinks of next steps.
What are you going to do for money?
Anne said people mostly tell her how the closure will affect them, and she feels heartbroken for the community. But one thoughtful little girl asked her, “if your place is closing, what are you going to do for money?” It was something most people aren’t asking her and she’s not sure herself.
For now she is grateful to the community, so touched by their support, and for all of the events and good times. As to her future, she will take some time to think about it all.
Parting advice
Anne wants residents to come together to protect the historic building that housed Oakwood Hardware. “You can’t save the restaurant, but you can save the building,” she says. It means a lot to Anne that the nearly 100-year-old building be protected with a historical designation.
She is also asking Oakwood Villagers to please shop locally. “Go to Nicaroma. Go get your clothes tailored at Canada Tailoring. Go to the local pharmacy across the street.” Anne says small business depend on residents. “If you don’t like something or want something they don’t have, let them know. They’re not mind readers, but they depend on you to survive.”
If you want to contact Anne, you can email her at: theoakwoodhardware@gmail.com
