Windsor Locks Top Business Nominee: Gathering Ground

WINDSOR LOCKS, CT — Recently, Windsor Locks-East Windsor Patch asked readers to nominate their favorite local business for Business of the Year. Many area businesses have managed to navigate the turbulence of 2020 with steadfast determination and an unwavering commitment to the clients they serve.

Since taking over the space at 482 Spring Street in Windsor Locks occupied for two decades by the Donut Kettle in early 2012, Tom Kupec has delivered outstanding breakfast and lunch service at the Gathering Ground. More than just a place to eat, the Gathering Ground is a place where people get to know each other and are on a first-name basis.

In addition to providing top-quality meals, Kupec is highly respected in his community for his generosity toward charitable organizations, for his support of fellow small businesses (even competitors), and for doing everything possible to adapt to the changing way of doing business during the coronavirus pandemic.

A sampling of what customers told Patch about the Gathering Ground follows:

• "Tom Kupec is amazing. This year he has more than once stepped up to help our community. He donates his restaurant to local groups, he’s donated food to those in need. There was a water issue at one of his neighboring business; he shut his place down so the issue could get fixed quicker. Another local business suffered destruction to their place in a robbery, Tom stepped up to get people to help with a temporary fix. He is selfless and always eager to give a hand and help!" - Anne Harrington
• "Owner Tom Kupec is a hometown boy. He has routinely given back to his community by donating his time and space to hold fundraisers for the nonprofits in town like Windsor Locks Special Olympics and Boy Scouts. During the pandemic he opened for burger night; he typically is only open from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. He made outdoor seating in the parking lot, he started delivery; anything to keep his head above water. On Facebook, he would advertise daily specials, but he also put shout outs to other local small businesses. He recommended the Deli, Skyline and Elm Street Package Store a few times. To me, that right there is a class act. His own small business is struggling, and he’s recommending other places." - Dawn Sopelak
• "Offering meals to go , as well as dining in, with great value for the money. Keeping the spirit of Windsor Locks alive for all generations and giving hope for hope going forward." - Susan Viggiano Barbosa
• "Owner is a selfless man who is always helping the community. The food is good too!" - Sharon Pfaffenbichler

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