While many people in our area had Thursday off, some workers, including those in 24-hour businesses or working on shortened schedules, punched the clock on Thanksgiving Day.
Bill Houston, district manager, said because it’s a 24-hour business, Waffle House’s schedule includes welcoming hungry residents on holidays like Thanksgiving.
“We are here on a holiday, and for this group here and in all of our restaurants, it’s more like being a family than being co-workers. So when we have people come in, it’s like inviting them into our house,” he said.
He said he doesn’t have a problem getting employees to work the holiday.
"We only have seven-hour shifts, and one of them runs 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., which allows them to enjoy the afternoon with their families. Also, the next group has had all morning and lunch,” he said.
Houston said there is an increase in business due to high amounts of people traveling, but customers are usually very generous with tips on holidays.
Jerry and Sue McNeil moved from Burlington to Kinston a year and a half ago and since their arrival, they said they eat at Waffle House three to four times a week.
Jerry said they enjoy the food and interacting with employees such as Houston.
“We try to get to know the waitress and the cooks. We just love coming here,” he said.
Jeano Farrow, owner of Jeano’s Beauty and Barber, said he had his shop open from 8 a.m. to noon because of his regular Thursday customers.
“We just told them to come first thing in the morning, so we can be out by 12 and be with our families,” he said.
He said the barbers who operate out of his shop all work for themselves, and came into work on a volunteer basis.
“All in all, we’ve got a lot to be thankful for. That’s what the day is about, being grateful and we appreciate our customers, so we try to be there for them,” he said.
Noah Cark can be reached at 252-559-1073 or Noah.Clark@Kinston.com. Follow him on Twitter @nclark763.