by John Schlageck
Years ago, almost every town had one. They served as a meeting place among friends and neighbors. You could catch up on local news and wet your whistle at the same time.
This long-gone establishment was the general store. It carried candy, soda, cigarettes, gas, hardware and a few clothing items like gloves and hats. Some were even run by a “registered” pharmacist and carried medicine for what ailed you.