The doors of Breakaway Family Restaurant & Lounge have officially closed, marking the end of an era for a business that has been a cornerstone of the Carman community since 1998.
For longtime owner Ferne Morgan, the decision was both emotional and deeply personal. “Closing of the restaurant was very hard for me as my partner, Barry Bracken, passed away with prostate cancer,” she said. “He wanted me to enjoy some of the retirement years while I am able and with no support from him anymore, I had no argument.”
The community’s support has meant a great deal to her during this transition. Ferne recalled receiving “condolences and a beautiful bouquet of flowers” from the Carman Chamber of Commerce. “They were beautiful,” she said.
Throughout the years, Breakaway became more than just a restaurant , it was a gathering place where friendships were formed and memories made. “Something that was quite memorable to me, and I’m sure the rest of the staff would agree, our morning coffee guys were a lot of fun and it helped us start our days off with laughter,” Ferne said.
Running the restaurant was not without challenges, especially during the pandemic. “The biggest challenge was trying to keep it going through COVID, and we did lots of takeout,” she said. “It opened the door for us to promote more takeout foods.”
Despite the difficulties, the work brought immense pride and fulfillment. “We were so proud of our food and to keep up with different menus and different ideas as we were able to try and create different menus all the time,” she said. “Staff and customers became my family and I will miss this deeply.”
Ferne said what she valued most was getting to know her customers and working closely with her employees. “This business was getting to know the customers, which was very good for me to serve in the restaurant as I’ve always worked in the lounge previously,” she said. “Our slower mornings I was able to help in the kitchen, getting to work with some of the employees and becoming a team.”
After more than 25 years, she is taking things one step at a time. “I’m not sure yet of what’s next for me. I say one day at a time,” she said. “I want to thank everyone for their patronage, big or small orders, every bit counted. I will miss this as I’ve been doing this since 1998.”
As she looks toward the future, Ferne says she is grateful for the many kind words and gestures of support she has received. “I wish to thank the people who sent me flowers — I received so many of them. Thank you very much.”
