by Kevin Coupe
Got the following email from longtime MNB reader Rich Heiland, who wanted tio draw my attention to something he'd seen that struck him as Eye-Opening. And so, here is that email:
If you ever have been to Galveston you’ve probably eaten at Gaido’s. It’s been around since 1911. They posted this on Facebook April 23. We always have eaten there but I am tempted now to drive nearly two hours just to get take out from them. I definitely am a customer for life. This just blew me away…
In our entire history of 109 years, we never could have imagined the situation Galveston, the United States, and the entire world is in. We have faced many challenges such as financial hardship and hurricanes but even all the hurricanes we have faced do not amount to the damaging effect caused by the pandemic. Who is most affected? Our employees, our families, all citizens. What can we do about it?
Starting today, we are bringing ALL of our staff back on board and will do our best to keep it that way.
Effective immediately and for the next few weeks, Gaido’s and Nick’s will pay all hourly staff at least $15 an hour. The surge in pay will hopefully stabilize many household incomes that have been negatively affected.
Our salaried managers will receive full performance BONUS for the next 4 weeks.
Santa will be delivering Christmas BONUSES early.
Every day, we will provide family meal for our entire staff, until we reopen our dining rooms.
Finally, every Friday for the next 4 weeks (beginning tomorrow), Gaido’s is going to supply FREE meals to Galveston’s first responders including police, fire, and medical personnel. Meals will be available curbside in front of the BIG CRAB. Pick up times will be 11am-1pm and 5pm-7pm.
For 109 years, our customers and employees have given so much to the Gaido Family. These are just a few ways we can say THANK YOU for all you have done to keep our business alive now and in the past. You, the people, are our future.
Sincerely,
Nick Gaido
Rich Heiland was right. That's an Eye-Opener. I've never been to Galveston, to the best of my recollection, but if I'm ever there, I know where I want to go to dinner …
