Friday, January 12, 2024
Fort Worth, Texas - On Monday, January 8, a sudden explosion at the Sandman Signature Hotel sent shockwaves through downtown Fort Worth. In addition to an incredible response by first responders, the local business community showcased remarkable resilience and solidarity.
SUPPORTIVE GESTURES FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
In an inspiring display of community spirit, local businesses rallied to lend their support. Fort Worth-based Reata restaurant stepped up to cater lunch at the Fort Worth Chamber office, where the Sandman Signature Hotel team had set up a temporary base.
“Community is at the center of everything we do at Reata. The ties that bind Fort Worth’s restaurants together are strong;” said Mike Micallef, President of Reata Restaurants. “We are a resilient group with much to unite us. We are proud to stand together to celebrate milestones and overcome tragedies.”
Chadra Mezza and Grill also played a role in bolstering spirits by catering lunch on Wednesday, further exemplifying the community’s united front.
“Facing challenges can strengthen our bonds, guiding us to depend on one another and offer support,” said Christina Elbitar, owner of Chadra Mezza and Grill, “We are honored to extend a meal providing some comfort and healing to those directly affected by the explosion. May our workspaces be a safe place for our work families. Today, we affirm that the Fort Worth community genuinely cares.”
COFFEE AND COMFORT
Adding to the supportive efforts, Ampersand Coffee, 2023 Fort Worth Chamber Small Business of the Year, provided coffee, a much-needed comfort during such times.
“We are glad and proud to be part of a community that is so supportive in times of both joy and misfortune.” said Toan Luong, Co-owner and Operating Partner for Ampersand, “We hope that our coffee will bring a little light for all of the team members at Sandman Hotel and we’re happy to be part of the collective to get them back on their feet.”
IMMEDIATE IMPACT AND SWIFT RESPONSE
The explosion not only caused immediate disruption but also posed significant challenges for nearby businesses and organizations. One of the first to react to the blast was the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, which evacuated its office at the direction of the Fort Worth Club, close to the blast site.
"Our first priority was the safety of our team members. We took immediate precautionary measures by evacuating our staff and closing our physical office,” said Steve Montgomery, President and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce. “In the hours that followed, our focus shifted towards community outreach. We actively reached out to our downtown Fort Worth partners and businesses, including the Sandman Signature Hotel, to offer support in any way we could.
A TESTAMENT TO FORT WORTH'S SPIRIT
The incident at Sandman Signature Hotel highlights the city's defining characteristics: resilience, community support, and the unwavering spirit of collaboration among its businesses.
The response to the downtown explosion is a testament to the enduring spirit of Fort Worth's business community, determined to rise above challenges and support each other in every way possible.
Following the evacuation and closure of its physical office on Monday, the Fort Worth Chamber reopened its doors to welcome the Sandman leadership team, supported by concerned members and partners.
“It was truly an honor for us to extend our office space to the Sandman team, offering them a space to set up base. We are immensely proud to have contributed our support during this challenging period," said Steve Montgomery, President and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.
The Fort Worth Chamber plays a crucial role in bringing the region together to identify issues, solve problems and help align resources for the Fort Worth business community.
To learn more about FWC membership, visit www.fortworthchamber.com/membership/join. To get engaged in the Chamber’s Business Retention and Expansion efforts, contact Netty Matthews.
