Milton's restaurant in Crystal faces closure, but neighbors aren't letting go

For 13 years, Milton's Vittle, Vino and Beer has been more than a restaurant in Crystal, Minnesota; it has been a home, a gathering place, and a pillar of kindness in the community.

Founded by Francine Weber and her late son Chad Freeman, the restaurant, Milton's, carries a name inspired by Weber's father. What began as a tribute to family recipes has grown into a neighborhood anchor.

"We started in 2013. It was a fast casual concept my brother came up with my mom," said Charlene "Char" Freeman, daughter of Weber and the general manager of Milton's.

Running the daily operations alongside her late brother and mother for years, Char Freeman serves as just more than a general manager – she's the cheerful, welcoming face of the business.

"I'm the person that remembers everybody. If I don't