Introduction to the Problem
CHICAGO (WGN) – The owner of a restaurant in the city’s Chatham neighborhood is speaking out after her business has been the target of attacks in the short time she has owned the eatery. The Fatburger restaurant hasn’t even been open for a year, and owner Jackie Jackson told WGN-TV they have been struggling due to problems being caused by young people. Jackson invested her own hard-earned money into the building that sat vacant for over a decade before she bought it.
History of Attacks
Surveillance video from December shows one of Jackson’s employees having to fight off someone who came behind the counter as other employees ran away in fear. "It was just so heartbreaking watching on the surveillance camera, them running for their lives," Jackson said. In January, more people jumped over the counter and caused problems. "I mean, there was a time back in the day where this type of stuff wouldn’t happen because we protect our own interests within, right? We wouldn’t tear up what we have in our communities, which is why these type of establishments are scared to come into communities these days," philanthropist Early Walker said.
Response to the Attacks
Since then, Jackson has invested in a window over the counter, taller fences outside and an even better security system. Jackson posted the surveillance video showing the incidents online just a few days ago, saying she wants parents to be held accountable. "It’s just very challenging and I believe the problem starts at home. The home needs to be the foundation. The parents need to be the leader," Jackson said. "If that foundation is not built, it’s going to spill over into the school system. It’s spilling over into the businesses and then eventually it’s spilling over into the streets. We need to do something as a community to hold the parents accountable."
Community Response
Her message resonates; the videos have gotten over one million views. Jackson said business is still struggling and she’s had to lay off some of her employees, but she’s committed to doing her part by employing young people. "What better way to do to employ the kids and not just give them a job, but teach them entrepreneurship, teach them the things that I was taught when I was growing up at McDonald’s and Burger King. So they just not only have a job, but they can also inspire to own a Fatburger and Kilwins just like I did. It doesn’t take a person with a lot of money. It takes faith, resilience and hustle," Jackson said.
Support from the Community
Walker and his business partner are paying for the first 100 burgers sold at Fatburger on Friday and Saturday as the restaurant hopes to turn the tides. Jackson will be holding a ribbon cutting and an official grand opening at that time as well, marking a fresh start.
Conclusion
The attacks on Fatburger restaurant in Chatham neighborhood are a concerning issue that requires attention from the community. Jackson’s efforts to hold parents accountable and employ young people are steps in the right direction. The support from the community, including Walker’s contribution, is crucial in helping the restaurant overcome its struggles. It is essential for the community to come together to address the root causes of the problem and work towards a solution.
FAQs
- Q: What is the name of the restaurant that has been attacked?
A: The name of the restaurant is Fatburger. - Q: How long has the restaurant been open?
A: The restaurant has not even been open for a year. - Q: What has the owner done to improve security?
A: The owner has invested in a window over the counter, taller fences outside, and an even better security system. - Q: What is the owner’s message to the community?
A: The owner wants parents to be held accountable and believes that the problem starts at home. - Q: How has the community responded to the owner’s message?
A: The community has responded positively, with the videos getting over one million views.
