Serving Warmth through the Storms

At the end of January, over four inches of snow fell in the Ozarks during the first winter storm of the year. The storm caused dozens of schools to close and businesses to shut their doors.

However, as the snow began to pile up, Bellacino’s Pizza and Grinders in Springfield, Missouri continued to serve their best pizzas and pastas.  

On Saturday, January 24th, as the first flurries of the storm fell, Bellacino's played the day by ear. They decided to close around 7 p.m., promising to keep the community updated as the storm progressed. But for that afternoon that they were open on Saturday, the pizza stop had more business than expected.  

“It’s people wanting to get a nice meal right now, especially because in most places they’re closed … it’s a variety of both takeout and dine in,” manager Chase Goochure told OzarksFirst.  

While serving customers during the winter storm, Bellacino’s knew how to have some fun with the community, especially on Facebook.  

“When the forecast says 'SNOW', why is it always milk, eggs, and bread that disappear first?! On a day when the whole region is stocking up for critical French toast supplies, we have to ask… what’s your go-to: French toast or Bellacino’s pizza?,” the restaurant asked in a post.  

Commentor Christy George remarked, “I can make great French toast at home, but I can’t even compare to trying to make a pizza as good as yours!”

Photo Credits: Bellacino's Pizza and Grinders

You might be wondering why this blog is highlighting Bellacino’s. It is located in the decently large city of Springfield and would not be categorized as a backroad dining experience. However, after noticing how the Springfield community interacted with this pizza stop during the snowstorm, I decided to look further into what kind of place Bellacino's is.

It turns out, they are braving a different kind of storm.

Recently, one of Bellacino's employees, Dean, was diagnosed with kidney cancer.  

Dean had worked at Bellacino’s for over eight years but had to step down due to his condition. 

Dean at work. Photo Credits: Bellacino's Pizza and Grinders

“If you’ve ever dined at Bellacino’s, chances are Dean played a big role in your experience,” said the restaurant. “Dean isn’t just a long-term employee—he’s a friend, a teammate, and a constant presence who shows up every day with heart and dedication.” 

Bellacino’s shared the link to Dean’s GoFundMe, urging their community to give back.  

And that community responded.  

Over two thousand dollars have already been raised to help cover Dean’s rent, insurance, and food costs. Dean’s sister, Mary, set up the GoFundMe page and gives credit to his Bellacino's family, not only for spreading the word, but for their support.  

“He is a valued and dedicated employee who is loved by all,” she said. “A special thanks to his boss Blaine and his wife Janice who have been there to support him through this tough time. Everyone needs an employer who cares this much.” 

Too often, we hear of workplaces distancing themselves from their employees. If the burdens of someone's life begin to burden the company, ties are cut and lines are drawn.

This mentality is rare when it come to smaller restaurants. Perhaps it is because the owner, more often than not, has a working relationship with their employees. Or maybe it is the relationship between the employee and the 'regulars' that builds that family mindset.

Either way, Dean made an impact at Bellacino's.

Now, as the storms roll through, Bellacino's is returning the favor.

How will you leave an impact in your workplace?