Our View: Lending A Hand To Larry’s

by The Cape Cod Chronicle

Staff and customers of Larry’s P.X. narrowly escaped with their lives last week when an SUV crashed through the front of the popular West Chatham eatery and careened nearly into the kitchen. One staff member suffered serious injuries when she was pinned between the vehicle and structure, and a customer was also hurt in the accident.
 As shocking as it was for those at the scene, it was almost as impactful on local residents who have patronized the spot that has anchored the Shop Ahoy Plaza for more than five decades. Words like “iconic” and “fixture” certainly apply to Larry’s, but just as beloved are its staff members, many of whom have cooked and served up lunch and breakfast for years.
 So it’s no surprise that almost immediately after the crash, efforts began to raise money for both the injured staff member and other Larry’s workers, many of whom will be without an income while the restaurant is closed. And again, no surprise — the response was overwhelming, as is often the case when it comes to the generosity of local residents.
 This is especially important given the season. It's unlikely the restaurant will reopen before Christmas, which means an uncertain holiday for Larry’s staff members. Those who contributed to the GoFundMe pages and the leadership of the Pals for Life Foundation, which doubled the amounts raised, are to be commended for both their quick action and largesse. A tragic incident like this often brings out the best in a community, and that is certainly the case here.