To support the employees and proprietors of Palace Grill, a devoted patron launched a GoFundMe page.
Last Thursday night, there was a fire at the popular diner.
Though there were no injuries, the employees lost their jobs and there was significant damage done. For eighteen years, The Palace Grill has been in operation.
Blackhawks players, politicians, and first responders were regular customers of the diner. Beyond just the food, they came. The warmth and care extended to individuals from many backgrounds drew them in.
Katrina Vlasich launched a GoFundMe page to raise $15,000 to help with repairs. It took slightly over a day to get there. Owner George Lemperis has suffered terrible losses.
“I started crying as soon as I arrived,” Lemperis remarked. “‘Sir, you don’t remember me,’ said a person who stopped me. You nourished me when I was down and out years ago. Here’s $5, he says. I want to pay you back for what I owe you.”
Lemperis is currently the beneficiary of a deluge of assistance.”He is the heart and soul of this place, and it’s a part of him,” Vlasich stated. As a devoted Blackhawks supporter, Vlasich got to know Lemperis through frequent visits for dinner before games. When she originally mentioned the notion to him, he was hesitant.
“I essentially told her, ‘You’re not requesting it. People want you to do it for them. Let them; they’re searching for a way to help you,” Vlasich remarked. Lemperis stated that while reconstruction is planned, it may take four to six months.
“Whatever money I get from the GoFundMe page will directly go to my employees,” he stated. Lemperis expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support he is now receiving.
