- November 12, 2024
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As a way to show their appreciation for the local first responders, Anthony’s Pizzeria hosted a free lunch for all active members on Wednesday, July 20, and Chick-fil-A on Monday, July 25.
“There may be bad apples, but I think the majority of the officers and first responders are courageous people who want to serve the community,” said Tony De La Cruz, owner of the pizzeria. “So, I wanted to do something for the good guys. I really didn’t think about the cost; it was more of what went into the planning and pizza making. But, I just wanted all the food to go.”
Anthony’s Pizzeria staff welcomed all first responders and waited on them as if they were high-paying customers. They served strombolis, salads, various kinds of pizza, anything the officers requested.
When a multitude of officers walked in together, they were met with an ovation from locals who were dining. Many walked up and thanked them for their services to the community.
“I am appreciative of all the police and the other responders do for us,” Betty Beveridge said. “Also, I made up my mind to never argue with them. I’ll just say, ‘You’re right, Officer,’ and go on my way.”
De La Cruz is one of many attempts held by business owners and community organizers who are seeking to help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, after all of the killings that have taken over the news.
Anthony's Brick Oven Pizzeria is located in Island Walk, near the Old Kings Road entrance. The address is 250 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Suite 405. Call 597-2600.
Chick-for-Cops
Chick-fil-A handed our free meals to law enforcement for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Glen Efford, owner of Chick-fil-A, received a call from Palm Coasters — who want to remain anonymous — who were upset about the things that had been happening to police officers and how they were being treated at restaurants.
“They wanted to do something special, so they asked if we would participate,” Efford said. “We try to treat them well every day because we give them a discount on their food, but today was a special day; we wanted to treat them completely and let them know that we appreciate them being out there in the line of fire, and we appreciate that they come when we need them.”
Chick-fil-A is located at 1000 Palm Coast Parkway NW. Call 445-0399.
“We really appreciate what everyone is doing,” said Commander Steve Brandt. “The negativity is not the majority but minority. The majority of the public supports us, and we appreciate that.”
Worth repeating: “The negativity is not the majority but minority. The majority of the public supports us, and we appreciate that.
STEVE COLE, Commander with Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
A word from Sheriff Jim Manfre: “We need to continue this mutual, because it’s “all us, not “us vs. them.” That’s the kind of attitude that gets people hurt.”
To see more photos, click here: http://www.palmcoastobserver.com/photo-gallery/photo-gallery-first-responders-eat-free-anthonys-pizzeria