Jimmy and Simon – and the American Dream
By: Douglas Heizer
Let me tell you about Jimmy and Simon. They are cousins, both from the Bahamas, but have lived in the United States for more than 20 years.
Jimmy is 27, Simon, 26. Both have two young children.
The cousins have worked many years in the restaurant trade, from washing dishes “right up the line.”
When they realized they knew as much about running a restaurant as the people they worked for – but weren’t getting the same money – they decided to strike out on their own.
Doing it at a time when many retailers and other business owners are complaining about the terrible economic climate is certainly courageous. But they want a piece of the American dream.
They just opened Jimmy Simon Burger Hut in a plaza on North Dixie Highway. It’s not a fancy place, but the food is wonderful. Burgers, sliders, specially seasoned fries, ribs and a special sauce – that’s the core of their trade.
They checked several other locations. In one case, the landlord jacked up the price just before they moved in. A second location didn’t seem right. Then, they found their spot. “I called my cousin and said ‘Drive down here right away,’” said Simon. They nailed down that location.
They don’t mind working seven days a week at their own restaurant. They are happy, and they are confident they will succeed. The cousins are looking forward to the new academic year when easily accessible Florida Atlantic University is back in full swing. They hope to attract students by staying open late and offering tasty American food at reasonable prices.
The Boca Raton Tribune staff has visited several times and enjoyed some delicious food – and the sauce is something special. Simon takes care of the front while Jimmy works the back – and cooks.
Yes, they’ve been told that now is not a good time to start a business. A lot of people are losing faith in the American Dream. But not these young men from the Bahamas. They already have plans to grow – and to set up another business in Orlando.
Failure is not in their vocabulary. And even with the retail environment in chaos, no one should give up on the American Dream.
Jazz Bossa Blues a big success
If you haven’t been to Carmen’s at the Top of the Bridge either of the past two Wednesday nights, you’ve missed a couple of great shows.
The Boca Raton Tribune is sponsoring a Jazz Bossa Blues summer series, which began June 1 with a performance by one of Brazil’s top vocalists, Beatriz Malnic. The Nicole Henry Quartet performed June 8.
Both times, guests kept coming in and coming in until the place was just about as full as it can get.
We’ve worked hard to organize an event with popular performers to help bring people to the Bridge during the summer months. Malnic, for example, has been called “the best Brazilian singer in the U.S.” by the Brazilian Press. Reviews say she offers “American jazz with a Brazilian twist and Bossa Nova with unparalleled flair.” Billboard Magazine called Nicole Henry” a jazz vocalist on the cusp of bigger things.”
The series continues through the summer, each Wednesday evening at the Bridge Hotel, 999 East Camino Real, Boca Raton. Doors open at 7 p.m., with the show running from 7:30 to 10:30. An entertainment fee of $10 is charged, and food and drinks are for purchase. Complimentary valet parking is offered.
Performing next, on June 15, will be Higher Ground, a Latin jazz and Bossa Nova group with a splash of salsa.
We hope to see you there! It’s a great time for all.
