Spruce Hill is a neighborhood that works. 1 Dear Abby's Abby's, at 47th and Baltimore, is a bar as diverse as the surrounding neighborhood, and a home away from home for some of the neighborhood's more colorful characters. First there's Abby himself, or more formally, Abdoviaziz Ahmed, who moved to the area from Ethiopia 17 years ago, working in hotels until he could save up enough money to buy his own business. Two years ago, he bought the bar. A barrel-chested man with bulging biceps and a shaved head, Abby cuts a fairly intimidating figure until he opens his mouth to speak, revealing the shy smile and gentle nature of a small boy.
People work hard, and come here to relax.
There's never any trouble. Asked how long he intends to stay, Abby laughs long and hard. This is my home. Behind the bar is Bill Mason, a tall African-American in his early 60s who was born and raised in the neighborhood and spent the last 30 years pouring drinks in local pubs. A former boxer, Mason looks to be in good enough shape to climb in the ring and go a few rounds today.