A small business owner from Long Island, Guy Caligiuri, spoke out after facing backlash from some customers for flying a Trump flag in his pizza shop. Caligiuri, who owns Patio Pizza, shared his experience with Stuart Varney on the show Varney & Co.
According to Caligiuri, a woman came into his shop to pick up an order when she noticed the flag and took offense. One of Caligiuri’s employees asserted that the flag belonged to him, which only escalated the situation.
The woman then threatened to post the encounter on her Facebook page with the intent of driving the pizza shop out of business. Caligiuri, who has been in business for 43 years, said he just ignored the threat and went about his day. However, things took a turn when the woman’s post gained traction and people began calling him to complain about the nasty things she had written about him online. She also urged the St. James community to boycott Patio Pizza.
Caligiuri was surprised by the backlash but grateful for the support he received from his local community and beyond. Residents from all over Long Island showed up at the shop to vocalize their support for his business and the president. Caligiuri stated that he has an American flag hanging in the front of his store, in addition to the Trump flag in the back.
“I think he’s a fantastic president, I think he’s done a great job, and I think it’s my right to support him and to show my support of him,” Caligiuri said.
Caligiuri was dismayed that the woman had taken it upon herself to try to put him out of business without knowing him, his family, or his grandchildren. He expressed his appreciation for the local community rallying behind him and the outpouring of support he received from people all over the country.
“It’s really wonderful. It’s really humbling,” he said.
After the interview, President Donald Trump tweeted his support for Caligiuri and Patio Pizza.
“Support Patio Pizza and its wonderful owner, Guy Caligiuri, in St. James, Long Island (N.Y.). Great Pizza!!!” he tweeted.
Caligiuri’s story is a testament to the power of community and the support that can arise in the face of adversity. It also highlights the importance of free speech and the right to express oneself, even in a public space. Caligiuri had every right to display his support for the president, and the local community had every right to show their support for his business in turn.
The incident also speaks to the divisive nature of politics in America today. In a time when people are quick to judge and cancel others based on their political beliefs, it is important to remember that we are all human and that we all have the right to our own opinions and beliefs. By coming together in support of Caligiuri and his business, the local community showed that it is possible to rise above the divisiveness and find common ground.
Caligiuri’s experience is a testament to the resilience of small business owners and the power of community support. In a time when small businesses are struggling to stay afloat, the outpouring of support for Patio Pizza is a welcome reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses and the people behind them.
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Sources: OpposingViews, FoxBusiness