Coffee with the Mayor

I like coffee! Seems as if I’ve liked coffee all my life, but I’m sure my parents made me wait until a certain age before they would let me taste it. My Dad was the coffee drinker of the house. I remember the mornings listening to the percolated coffee pot working and the aroma it made in the kitchen. I also remember when Dad got his first Mr. Coffee brand coffee pot! Guess that made a difference in the coffee because he really liked it! I think it was the Mr. Coffee-produced coffee that I remember the most. Along the way I’ve enjoyed many types of coffee produced in many ways, even flavored coffee! Have to say I currently enjoy my Keurig-made coffee at home. But coffee is not what I want to talk about.

Later in life coffee became the medium with which Dad and I would take a few minutes to spend together. Regardless of the hour I would call to see if Dad wanted to “go get a cup of coffee” and the reply was always “sure”. I think my mom enjoyed the break. This would happen when my sisters were available as well. Regular or decaf, made no difference. It was during these coffee times that I learned so much about Dad. Casual discussions that became precious and permanent memories. This was especially true since we had the Navy experience in common, although his Navy time was during the war. The location of getting a cup of coffee changed over the years, but the discussions did not!

It is my intent as Mayor under the title “Coffee with the Mayor” to convey insights into the responsibilities of the Mayor's office and issues facing the city as well. I plan, at least at the onset, to produce this article on a regular, yet-to-be-determined basis.

It may not make memories but it may educate and you might learn something. Based on my limited time in office, I have a feeling I would be glad for the interruption and, when asked, glad to go “get a cup of coffee”. If you want, you can drink tea but I’ll drink coffee!

John Preble is currently serving his first term as the Mayor of Linton, Indiana. This blog will serve as one way for the Mayor’s office to communicate news and items of interest to readers.