Remembering a "Romeo"

If it is a Tuesday morning, chances are Angie Rivera is serving The Romeos at IHOP 36-233 . It's a club, of sorts, in Palm Coast: The large group of gentlemen, or "Retired Old Men Eating Out" as they call themselves, meets under our blue roof on Palm Coast Parkway with Angie serving hot coffee, fresh pancakes, and hospitality that is unmatched.

Sadly, the group lost a regular member earlier this year. You'd think serving smiles would turn solemn at the table, but Angie took an extra step to show her support. When the group showed up for their regular outing following the loss of their friend, Phil, a plaque in his honor was placed at "his" seat... by Angie.

The Romeos gave the plaque to Phil's widow, Debbie, who wrote a letter to Angie, thanking her for the simple act of kindness to honor a man who was more than a guest to many. In part, Debbie wrote:

"Phil so enjoyed the Tuesday morning Men's Breakfast... and you played a part in that... a caring server like you, makes everything nicer. When Phil talked about this group he also mentioned you as wonderful person.

When the guys told me that you had a plaque made and put at Phil's seat, I cried like a baby. I've known for 30 years what a special person Phil was but this kind of memorial showed me that he touched more live than I'll ever know. Thank you for sharing the plaque with me, that means a lot!"

The Romeos return to the Palm Coast IHOP on Tuesdays with Angie welcoming them to their table, a team member who truly takes care - and cares for - her guests.

We're grateful to have team members like Angie who share the Heart of IHOP!