Sweet surprise for The Sugar Shack employees

In light of so many difficulties for food and service industry companies during COVID, the Lemon-Aid Foundation is handing out giant tips as part of their Great American Tip Off.

It’s supported by Marcus Lemonis, the CEO of Camping World.

On Monday, employees at The Sugar Shack in Virginia found out they received a $1000 tip from the campaign.

Erin Powell, owner, surprised the two women who were working that moment. Nicolle Rintala and Deb Krall were overwhelmed.

"It’s a really fun place to work. We all get along, and help eachother out," Krall said.

Rintala said, "I’ve loved baking since I was a little kid. My mom got me into it. It doesn’t feel like work, coming here."

They are appreciative of the extra money, but say the best feeling is seeing the smiles and the kids excited about the sweets.

Sugar Shack opened in November of 2019, right before the pandemic hit. "We’ve doubled sales," Powell said. "The Iron Range supports us."

She didn’t qualify for many of the COVID relief opportunities, since she was a brand new business. Still, they have persevered.

The foundation also said they gave a $3000 tip to Master Stylists in Virginia.