Big Sammy gets pat on the back

I commend Sammy of Big Sammy's restaurant. On Saturday, March 20, he really paid it forward!

When I walked into Big Sammy's on Bushwood Drive in Elgin at about 5 p.m. to see what their special event was all about - all the tables were filled.

Despite the snowy weather, there was a line of patrons all the way to the front door. I immediately sensed a very cordial atmosphere of people gobbling up Sammy's home-style goodies and enjoying talking to one another. I saw a giant sign posted on the wall noting all of Sammy's proceeds for this day would be donated to Grafton Township Food Pantry. At the far corner was a Grafton Township volunteer accepting cash donations. As I neared closer to the order counter, there was Sammy himself working, I learned, upfront the entire day - nonstop and still at the 5 p.m. hour with the biggest smile on his face.

I am sure Grafton Food Pantry thanks you for your generosity, and you made the day special too for many, many other people. As a mom and someone who has lost her job recently, you enabled us to enjoy a very affordable family "meal out" that day. In these rough times, it was touching to see you, an employer and business owner, working tirelessly side by side with your staff, smiling, and being so cordial to all the customers. Let's hope your commendable example is followed by other area employers.

Chris Klawinski

Hampshire