A small but impressive initiative has taken root in the heart of Nebraska, showing how creativity and compassion can come together to promote responsible behavior and prioritize public safety…
A Nebraska pub has come up with a new incentive system to thank customers who don’t drink and drive.
A message was placed on the windscreens of cars left in the car park overnight after their owners had a few drinks at the Union Bar and Grill in Gering. The letter entitles you to a free hamburger and fries. This system has been used in the bar for many years.
The woman whose husband received the letter shared it on Facebook, where it received over 24,000 likes and 53,000 shares. Janelle Martin noted that she released the letter because she believes it is an example of a pub trying to keep customers safe.
Scott Swanson, who runs the pub with his wife Carla, said he had messages on Facebook from people all over the country thanking him for responding to Martin’s post. He went on to say that most of the messages came from those who had lost a loved one to a drunk driver. “It’s a $7 burger, and if it keeps someone out of jail or keeps someone from killing someone, it’s damn worth it,” he explained.
Swanson added that his wife got the idea two years ago after seeing something online about a pub offering consumers a similar deal. He added that he places the signs on the windshields on weekends when eight to ten cars are parked in the client’s parking lot. He admitted that he does not leave letters every weekend. He hopes more bars will follow.
“Dear Guest of Union Bar and Grill Park,” the letter begins. Just wanted to thank you for parking the car overnight. I am not sure if you have been drinking in our restaurant, but we would like to thank you for not drinking and driving. If you bring this letter to the bar, we’ll give you a hamburger and fries. Please accept this as an acknowledgment of your responsibility. Life is precious; have a nice day.”
Swanson said, “100%” when asked how many customers take advantage of the free meal offer.
In a world often marred by the headlines of drunk driving accidents and tragedies, Union Bar & Grill’s rewards system shines as a beacon of hope. It serves as a reminder that businesses can actively contribute to the safety and well-being of their patrons and communities. And while patrons enjoy their free burgers and fries, they’re reminded that their choice made a difference—a difference that goes beyond food and is reflected in responsible decision-making.