LYNN — As the morning of Thanksgiving arrived, some were already hard at work at Brothers Deli, where they prepared to serve the people of Lynn and beyond.
This would be the 33rd year that the deli would open its doors at 8 a.m. on the holiday to give back to the community with free Thanksgiving meals, something owner George Markos still looks forward to.
“I’m very thankful. It makes me feel like I’ve achieved something in my life. My idea is to always help people and be there for them, but they help me, too. There’s not many words that I can say. Sometimes I’m shocked that I’m able to do this,” Markos said.
He said that this has become a regular routine for him every year.
It isn’t just Markos who has continued this tradition, though. He pointed out multiple volunteers and staff in the restaurant who have been involved in the Thanksgiving day service since the ’90s.
“I wish every day was like this because everybody’s happy… I couldn’t find a better community. We have a good bond together,” he said.
Markos said that he wished for everybody to be healthy.
“Health is one of the most important things… And safety. I want people to stay strong… We’re always talking about hard times. I don’t know when it’s going to be a good time. I think things are worse than ever economically. I just wish the best for people because this affects not just them, but their kids and their families. It affects everybody,” he said.
As he spoke, multiple people came through the line, receiving their food, thanking Markos, and wishing him a happy Thanksgiving, and each time he responded with a smile and a happy Thanksgiving in return. It’s clear from the interactions with those who walk through the door and from how the staff and volunteers serve each person that this day is a labor of love at Brothers Deli.
