TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — The latest recipient of the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week is our own Tally Mac Shack.
U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, who serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, applauded Tally Mac Shack owner Justo Cruz for following his entrepreneurial dream.
In 2017, Cruz traded in his 2006 Nissan for an old delivery truck and created the first Tally Mac Shack food truck, selling comfort food with a gourmet twist.
He was able to partner with his alma mater, Florida State University, and local agencies like the Down Syndrome Association of Florida, HealthCare Cancer Center, the Kearney Center for the homeless, and Hurricane Michael relief.
Rubio's video messageannouncing the honor recognized Cruz's significant impact on the Tallahassee community and the company's growth.
“Justo has grown his business year over year, partnering with his alma mater Florida State University," said Rubio. "Today, Tally Mac Shack has nearly 30 employees with multiple trucks and locations, and even has a concession stand at FSU’s football stadium.”
Rubio said he was also impressed with the company’s focus on their community.
“Tally Mac Shack has emphasized community service since its inception,” he said. “Additionally, they recently became an official On Job Training partner with Leon High School’s culinary program that offers mentorship to local students.”
Cruz said he is grateful for the recognition and opportunity to give back those who made his success possible.
“I cannot thank Senator Rubio enough for this unexpected recognition,” Cruz said. “It has been our philosophy since day one to get involved with our community, and our continued success comes from our determination to get involved at multiple levels. More than just donating money, we are focused on being present by participating and attending community events.
“From supporting other local businesses through product collaborations to developing programs to help young entrepreneurs pursue their dreams, we are grateful for the chance to use our platform to help others grow and succeed with us.”
Tally Mac Shack’s locations include the 1851 Dining Hall on the campus of Florida State University, Doak Campbell Stadium during FSU home football games, Happy Motoring in south Tallahassee, and its iconic food trucks at various locations and events throughout the community.
Cruz also has Slide Hustle, a food truck serving gourmet sliders. The new food truck will be at FSU home baseball games and every Thursday through Sunday parked at Deep Brewing.
