Gus Manos built Zesto on 12th Street in Triangle City into a West Columbia landmark destination for celebrities, elected officials and even a president. But most importantly, Zesto was a haven for the surrounding community where everyone feels welcome.

West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles hailed Gus Manos, who died in December, as a man who built Zesto as a monument to hard work and friendship. He also said Gus, who immigrated to the US from Greece, was a great American and a man of his faith who loved his family. In addition, Miles mentioned Gus’s generosity, giving food to comfort in the times of crisis for the city.

Miles made his comments at a City of West Columbia ceremony where the Gus Manos Memorial Street was unveiled. The city designated the street in Gus’s honor in recognition for his lasting contributions to the West Columbia community. He was a beloved business man, a mentor, and civic leader. Sheri Manos, Gus’s wife of 60 years, was also at the ceremony with the rest of Gus’s family.

Pete Manos, Gus’s son, lauded his father’s integrity and a work ethic. He also noted that Gus came to America at age 11, and had to learn English. He said Gus, as a child, and cried at night because he missed his mother, who was back in Greece. West Columbia took in Gus in, Pete said. To Pete and Anastasia Manos’ daughter, Melina, Gus was Papa Gus, who was super-protective of her and cherished every moment with her.

SC Rep. Micah Caskey said “every time you drive onto 12th Street, you will see Gus’s name and it will remind you of what a good friend of the community he was.

SC Sen. Russell Ott said Gus offered decades of service to the community, including 42 years on Springdale Town Council. Today is a proud day for me, Ott said, adding that Gus deserves his name on 12th Street and that Gus will always be a part of the landscape of West Columbia.