Focus On: Tony LaPila

Life-long Middletown resident, Tony LaPila, is a butcher at Meadow Meat Co. Inc. on Eastern Drive in Middletown.  Dave Sargis, the owner’s son, notes that Meadow Meat is a unique place.  He says it’s all about, “Quality stuff at a fair price … not junk at a cheap price.”  He adds,  “It’s a world that’s disappearing fast, but we still got it going here.”  So on a brisk March morning, Tony shared a little about his butchery work at this very unique, family-owned meat market. 

Here is what Tony had to say in his own words:

How long have you worked in Middletown?

 I’ve worked at Meadow Meat for about 14 years. 

 What do you like best about working here?

 Real good people to work for.  Excellent people, I should say.  You know, I enjoy the public coming in here.  The time goes by fast.  When you enjoy your job, the time just goes … I mean that’s why I’m still here.

 Is this what you always dreamed of doing? 

 Well … good question! Back then, when I took an apprenticeship when I worked at First National, it was a two-year apprenticeship, and I needed the money … obviously when you’re young, you know, you want to buy a car and stuff like that and I figured that was where the money was.  I’ve been doing this for over 50 years so I’ve been doing this all my life.

 Do you have a favorite place to eat in Middletown?

 No.  My wife’s a good cook and I like to call it “Marie’s Kitchen,” that’s her name, and she cooks homemade meals from scratch … so why go anyplace else?  That’s the way I look at it.

 If you were mayor of Middletown, what would be your first priority?

 Ha!  I’m not a politician.  I don’t want to get involved in that!