Business owner thanks educators by treating four schools to lunch

Steve Hermiz, Ramona business owner for 10 years, enjoys giving back to the community and he did it in a big way by treating the entire staffs at four schools to lunch just before the school year closed.

“Giving back to the community has always been a priority to me,” said Hermiz, owner of three Country Wine & Spirits in different sections of Ramona. “Our customers aren’t just customers. They are extended families that I hold close and dearly to my heart.”

His first stop was Ramona High School, where he delivered sandwiches, wraps, tuna salad, chicken salad, macaroni salad, soda, water and chips — enough for 120 people at a value of about $500.

From there he went to Barnett Elementary School with lunch for all employees. The next day he made lunch deliveries to James Dukes Elementary and Mt. Woodson Elementary.

“My objective is to unite our community of Ramona by being involved in as many nonprofit organizations and charity events by giving back to the community,” said Hermiz, a Ramona resident. “We here in Ramona have something special, and I look forward to seeing it blossom into something truly amazing.”

Country Wine & Spirit stores are at 23658 San Vicente Road, 1350 Main St. and 11718 Highway 67.

On July 4, Hermiz will treat customers to free barbecue hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, chips, nachos and chile. It’s a tradition he started in 2005 as another way to give back to the community.

He’ll start serving at 11 a.m. outside his store on San Vicente Road in Country Estates and will continue serving until the food runs out. He plans on enough for about 3,000 people.