Beef 'O' Brady's Owners Recognized By County, Schools

It's a Beef 'O' Brady's thing, but Cormac McCarthy and his wife Lora fully understand what it means to be involved with the school's in their community.

The couple are Bloomingdale residents and owners of the Beef O'Brady's stores on and . Through both restaurants, the couple has poured out support in any way possible for and high schools. Last month, their efforts were recognized when they were presented the Hillsborough County High School Foundation Award for Community Service.

"I didn't even know about it when Paul Lindstrom from Newsome nominated us for the award," Cormac McCarthy said. "We help out the schools as much as we can. We're not people that just write a check and go on our way. We like to be involved and get to know the schools."

Newsome athletic director Paul Lindstrom wanted to thank the couple for their support of the Newsome High football program and was pleased to see them receive the award. From Lindstrom's perspective, however, the award is for a lot more than supporting the football program.

"Anytime we need something we know we can count on them, even if it's last minute," Lindstrom said. "They provided hospitality for our football games, but Cormac also teaches some of our business classes and serves as a guest speaker. They help us with our sports banquets and provide T-shirts for our basketball team. They support the school year round and donate a lot of it. We have a lot of people who support the school in the community, but what Cormac and Lora do is really special because they are so reliable and never say no."

The McCarthys came to Bloomingdale from Detroit in 1982. While in the Motor City, the couple was in the restaurant business, but never experienced a relationship with their local community like the one they've created here with Beef's.

"All of our stores are very involved with the schools in more than just sports," McCarthy said. "It's really a Beef O'Brady's characteristic to be a part of the schools like we are. Over the years we've made a lot of friends in the schools, and I hear from parents that they feel comfortable letting their kids coming here. They know the McCarthys are going to keep them in line and keep them out of trouble ."

For McCarthy, the relationship with the schools, and in particular the sports programs, has been something he has grown to enjoy and cherish.

"I go back to my days in school and my coaches taught me more than just sports, they taught me life lessons," McCarthy said. "It's been great to have become part of the community like we have. We've enjoyed supporting the kids and we'll continue to do whatever we can."