Fast Five: Charlie Cederquist: Serving North Idaho with a smile since ‘03
By DEVIN WEEKS
Staff Writer
Meet Charlie Cederquist: Mom, homeschool teacher, yogi, runner, hiker, bartender, server and cat lover.
Generation: Generation Y because I didn’t get my first cell phone until I was 22!
Career and community involvement: I have lived in Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls since 2000. I have worked as a bartender/server since 2003. As far as community involvement, the kids and I attend all of the community events that we can and are constantly looking for ways to learn about our community and the history of this area.
Parental status: Mom of human children and one human adult as well as fur babies.
1. As someone who has worked in the service industry for several years, what are a few things you enjoy most about your interactions with people?
My favorite part about working in the service industry is meeting people and expanding my network. A constant interaction with people is refreshing. I love that I can create a positive experience for guests and friends by having a good attitude and a sense of humor. I love seeing a person’s mood change because of me. I also enjoy the people that I have the privilege of working with. We become a tight-knit family.
2. What are you seeing and hearing from your colleagues in the wake of pandemic closures?
An awareness of what all that we touch and what others touch! We’ve had to establish a new routine/protocol: Sanitize the pens, the check presenters, the chairs, the bar tops, the credit cards, the phones, the computer screens, the door handles, etc. after every single person comes in. We are getting stuff done! Servers are really good at finding cleaning projects and other projects to avoid utter boredom. Both places where I work will shine “like the top of the Chrysler building” when the quarantine is over! We are all very grateful for all of our regulars and patrons. People have been very generous during this time.
3. What can members of the public do to lift up their neighbors experiencing tough times right now?
Be positive and courteous. With everyone on edge, we must tread delicately with each interaction for fear of offending someone. We’re in this together, so why not portray a positive attitude? Also, keep your sense of humor! Ask yourself: How can I help whoever needs help? What local charities can I contribute to? Who needs groceries and other supplies? What can I do for my neighbor?
4. What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I asked my kids this question and they replied: “You’re really smart,” “You are happy” and “You are very flexible.”
5. If you could be any animal for a week, what would it be?
A bird, so I could fly. But when I think about this, I remember watching birds making nests and feeding their young and I don’t envy them. They seem so busy and like they are working so hard all the time!
