ROMEOs Make Everyday Outstanding
November 22nd, 2006
They used to be just five “Really Old Men Eating Out.” But after a community tragedy hit home, the ROMEOs made a decision to “Reach Out and Make Everyday Outstanding.” And they’ve been giving ever since.
The five original members of the ROMEOs — Harold Goldman, Bob Hagen, Boyd Bowdish, Frank Careccia and Barry Bakken — meet regularly at Boulevard Coffee in Los Gatos, a gem of a local coffee shop that could be the caffeinated version of “Cheers”; everybody knows your name.
So when Tammy Olivera, the owner of the coffee shop, found herself overwhelmed with medical expenses from breast cancer treatments, the men knew they had to help. Each member agreed to contribute $100 per month to help the family. Though Tammy passed away last year, the ROMEOs now honor of her memory by giving away that same monthly stipend where it can do the most good.
To date, the ROMEOs have donated to local charity auctions, high school clubs, theater projects, and libraries. When the high school sports facility was destroyed by arson, the ROMEOs were there. When a young Boulevard employee couldn’t afford to join a volleyball club, the ROMEOs were there. And last but not least, there’s a growing list of coffee shop regulars who never fail to get birthday presents.
Apparently generosity is infectious. Another Boulevard regular, Karol MacDonald, now faithfully contributes to the kitty each month, and other coffee shop patrons generously give of their time and money as situations arise.
What remains constant is the spirit of community that these men so successfully foster. With a relatively small contribution of capital — perhaps the amount you spend each month on coffee or movies or new clothes — and very big hearts, these five men have managed to touch the lives of their neighbors in meaningful ways.
When is a coffee shop more than just a place to buy coffee? When the people who go there take the time to turn it into a community. This Thanksgiving I’m thankful for people with big hearts — people just like the ROMEOs.
Great job, guys!
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