PUNTA GORDA, Fla. — F.M. Don’s on W Marion Ave in Punta Gorda remains a beloved fixture in the community, cherished by locals for its warm atmosphere and flavorful dishes. Yet, like many businesses in the path of nature’s fury, it now faces a difficult challenge, having succumbed to nearly two feet of water after the recent onslaught of Hurricane Helene.
Owner and Chef Keith Bernard Meyer expressed to FOX 4’s Victoria Scott that this is the worst damage he has encountered in his years of service. “It’s heartbreaking,” he remarked. The water, he lamented, wasn’t just rain; it brought a cocktail of sewage, grease, mud, and debris—a true cesspool that demands more than just a routine cleanup.
As Chef Meyer surveyed the scene, he realized the extent of the devastation was far-reaching. The restaurant needed complete sanitization, bleach to combat lingering odors, and significant renovations. The floors would have to be torn up, the outlets replaced, and walls scrubbed down until they shone. Indeed, restoration is a laborious process, often accompanied by uncertainty.
“Honestly, I feel mostly bad for the employees,” Meyer said, his voice tinged with concern. “Their income largely relies on tips. If there’s no work, there’s no pay.” His empathy extends beyond the confines of a business; it speaks to the heart of community and camaraderie. While a handful of employees receive salaries, many depend on the restaurant’s bustling clientele to make ends meet. “It hurts us all, but they bear the brunt of it,” he reflected contemplatively.
Despite the challenges, a resilient atmosphere prevailed among the staff, as seen in the spirits of those who spoke with Victoria Scott. Denise Klemba, an employee, shared, “It feels weird not coming to work. We just need to get things moving again.” Her words captured a collective longing—a desire not just to return to work, but to provide a service that connects them to their patrons, their family.
Another team member, Tiffany Willis, expressed her determination to pitch in during this trying time. “After helping my family this morning, I know it’s a lot to handle,” she noted thoughtfully. “The more hands on deck, the better.” The community spirit was palpable as employees rallied for one another, proving that while the storm of Hurricane Helene has caused chaos, it has also ignited a flame of solidarity among them.
Hope remains steadfast as the staff at F.M. Don’s optimistic gaze rests on reopening the restaurant in early October. Despite the hurdles ahead, this Punta Gorda establishment is more than just its physical structure; it is woven into the fabric of the community, and through resilience and collective effort, it will rise again. One thing is clear: the heart of F.M. Don’s beats not just for its delicious food, but for the people who pour their lives into making it a cherished gathering place.
