By Mary Ann Hutcheson
If you have walked into Bellacino’s Pizzas and Grinders of Irmo in the past few years, you have probably witnessed Ty Hendrix’s welcoming smile and bright, warm eyes. His magnetic, confident, and vibrant personality cannot be overlooked. The Gilbert High School graduate works five days a week from 7 am to 4 pm, with, as he says, “one day to chill.” He has been a part of the Irmo team for four years after initial training at the Lexington location. His position involves being a floater, attending the register, answering the phone, exhibiting excellent customer service, and distributing orders as fast as possible to customers. “Everybody has something important to do here,” he says.
Working hard to graduate early and begin full-time employment, Ty hit the ground running. He reveals that he loves his job and admires his boss, Cheryl, whom he considers family. “I love cooking, it’s easy! I’ve been in the food industry for so long; daddy taught me to cook at a young age,” Ty explains. “I especially enjoy grilling steaks outside in nature.” Antonio, his father, works at the same location and is revered as the family cook at home. Ty admits that he gets his drive and ambition from his father, who says, “Bellacino’s is a wonderful business.”
Although he is thrilled to be in a position where he can advance, earn money, and invest at the age of 19, when asked about the future, Ty reveals that he wants to be wealthy–not rich. “I would like to have a big house someday, not too far from my immediate family, and I would like to be married with two children; a boy and a girl.”
The handsome and determined young man is wise beyond his years and eager to help others. Ty offers this advice to his friends beginning to venture into the workforce with an entrepreneurial spirit: “Just hustle. Anybody can do anything; just put your mind to it and believe in God.” Excellent advice from someone who practices what he preaches.
