Charity BBQ a success

Last Tuesday’s weather turned out just perfect for the charity barbeque hosted by Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse Casual. Residents and passerby’s had the opportunity to have a fresh hot hamburger and a cold drink in exchange for a cash donation with all proceeds going to the Echo Society in Whitecourt. 

A section of the restaurants’ parking lot converted into a patio complete with plenty of picnic tables. Secure Energy graciously donated their industrial size barbeque grill along with two employees who’d offered to cook. The teamwork put into making the barbeque a success was seamless. First on the assembly line was the Secure Energy employees who’d grilled 180 patties over the lunch hour. It was a quick stop to grab a plate for those getting their food and meet with the wonderful ladies from the Echo Society who doled out your bun and patty. And alas, you’d made your way to the end of the table to be greeted by the lovely waitresses from Mr. Mikes, who stood by to garnish your burger to your heart’s desire, not to mention adding in Mr. Mike’s special sauce. The consensus from those who attended had commented as being one of the best burgers and extremely filling.

Louise Meyer, Executive Director for the Echo Society, had been thrilled to learn that the barbeque proceeds would go to the Society. “Mr. Mike’s approached us and was a complete surprise, but what a wonderful surprise. The weather cooperated, the turnout was great, and I’m just so pleased.” Meyer further added, “In these times when everybody’s ability to raise funds has been diminished completely, to be included in this charity barbeque is just something else. I couldn’t ask for a better community partner.” Thanks to the public’s support and generosity, Mr. Mike’s was able to donate $1,000 to the Echo Society, which will help them cover some unexpected costs such as personal protective equipment and general operating expenses.

Long-time resident Paulette Plummer took ownership of Mr. Mike’s last November, which coincided with its first anniversary of being in Whitecourt. It had been a leap of faith for Plummer, but one she’s not regretted. “It took a bit to get into the swing of things, but aside from that, it’s been great.” As with all other establishments, the business had been on par until the pandemic hit. However, once Mr. Mike’s was able to reopen, the business began to pick up again. Summer traffic is also down due to the impacts of COVID, but Plummer is hoping September people will slowly get back into their routines.

The pandemic has not only strained businesses but also pressure-tested people’s finances and emotions. That was just more reason for Plummer to hold the charity barbeque. “With all the negativity going around about politics and the pandemic, it’s nice to be able to give a little boost to the community, bring residents together all the while helping out for a good cause.

Since Plummer has taken ownership of Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse Casual, residents may have noticed a shift in the business’s presence and attitude. As a 12-year resident of Whitecourt, Plummer is a firm believer in volunteering and supporting community groups. A few fun events coming that Mr. Mike’s will be involved with are the Dung & Thistle, which is similar to a spartan race and will be held locally. Another thing that’s sure to grab the attention of many is the “Pay it Forward” program rolling out in September. As Plummer explained, it’s for any businesses, sports teams, volunteer or charity organizations. All they have to do is stop into Mr. Mike’s and get signed up to receive the Pay it Forward card. For example, if you’re a hockey team or a business, each member on the team or staff can receive a card with their name on it and the association to which they belong. Once you receive a card, present it and the receipt each time you go to Mr. Mike’s. The dollars spent will be tallied and go on to a gift card. At the end of December, you have the option to cash in your accumulated dollars. Plummer added, “If by the end of the year, you’ve accumulated $500, we will give you $500 worth of gift cards to be spent at ours or any other Mr. Mike’s location. Yes, we are giving out a lot; however, it’s our way of giving back to the community as a local owner.”