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Below is an inspiring story of a man who stood up for what he believed in, fought back against those who tried to shut him down, and WON. He explains why he did it, and is inspiring others to do the same.
From Fox News: A 100-foot “Vote for Trump” sign now lights up part of a city’s skyline in upstate New York after a judge vacated an order to prevent its display.
Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino, who installed the sign on the repurposed Fownes glove factory building in Amsterdam, New York, hailed the judge’s order as an “epic win for free speech.” Last week, the city’s Democrat mayor had sought a court order to cover up the sign, alleging it violated city code.
Constantino hosted an event on Monday to celebrate the first lighting of the sign in a show of support for former President Trump, the Republican presidential nominee. He told Fox News Digital that “maybe 3,000 or so” people attended, including UFC star Henry Cejudo.
“It blew past expectations,” Constantino said. “We didn’t know what was going to happen. Everybody loved the event, it was all smiles. We had Democrats and Republicans there, and everyone was really happy with what we did.”
Up to a half hour before Monday’s event, it was unclear whether the sign would be uncovered at all, the CEO said.
City officials had claimed the large “Vote 4 Trump” sign “presents a dangerous distraction and impacts traffic flow,” and had obtained a temporary restraining order to stop it from being lit.
However, state Supreme Court Judge Rebecca Slezak ruled in Constantino’s favor, finding that the city “did not demonstrate any safety concerns related to the structure of the sign or to its visibility from the public highways.”
Constantino posted the follow video and statement explaining the story behind the Trump sign. He wrote:
Since I was kid the iconic FOWNES sign in Upstate, NY was a symbol of American Manufacturing moving to China. The FOWNES company completely shut down operations in Amsterdam, NY in 1984, when I was 2 years old, and moved everything overseas decimating my home city. The people left little by little and a once vibrant city became a depressed town.
Throughout my life the FOWNES sign defined my home town’s skyline. It was clearly visible from the thruway and seen by millions of people every year as they passby or arrive to Amsterdam.
I never expected to own the iconic FOWNES building, but my own company, Sticker Mule, grew so quickly we ended up buying almost every functional manufacturing building in Amsterdam, creating nearly 1000 manufacturing jobs, thus far, in the process.
For the last few years, we debated what to do with the FOWNES sign.Given everything happening in the world today. We decided to replace it with an equally iconic, and symbolic sign that represents that the return of Manufacturing Jobs to America and the Triumph of the Underdog against insurmountable adversity.
No one thought we’d build a massive manufacturing company in America. Just as no one expected a certain individual would become President, survive multiple assassination attempts and inspire people all around the world that they’re able to do more than they ever dreamed possible.
Our Vote 4 Trump sign, designed by a team of local artists, uplifts the Amsterdam NY skyline with an symbolic message that manufacturing can return to America and no one should fear supporting the man leading the charge to make it happen.
Anthony Constantino, CEO, Sticker Mule
WATCH BELOW:
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After the sign-lighting event, he wrote, “Thank you everyone for coming to the historic ‘Vote for Trump’ sign lighting and watching live all over the world. It was so great to see everyone so happy. Unity!”
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Below is another inspiring video Constantino just shared on Wednesday:
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It gets better… prominent social media user and ‘news junkie’ John Curtis posted the following MUST-READ open letter to Constantino:
An open letter to @stickermule and CEO @ac132
I wanted to reach out to express my sincere admiration for your courageous stance in openly supporting Donald Trump, especially in today’s politically charged environment. Your decision to not only voice your support but to back it with actions like creating StickerPAC, offering the $5 Trump-themed t-shirts, and most recently unveiling a beautiful ‘Vote for Trump’ lighted sign on your building, is truly commendable.
You’ve demonstrated that being an entrepreneur isn’t just about business acumen but also about standing by your beliefs. In an era where many business leaders, other than Elon, shy away from controversy, your willingness to put your livelihood on the line speaks volumes about your character.
By providing avenues like stickers and t-shirts, you’re not just supporting a political figure but championing the right to free speech and expression. This initiative allows individuals to show their support in a tangible way, which is crucial in a democracy.
Your commitment to creating jobs in the USA and supporting American manufacturing through initiatives like these, not only boosts the economy but also aligns with the principles of supporting local and national growth, which many, including myself, deeply appreciate. As I’m sure does your hometown of Amsterdam, New York.
Given the potential backlash and modern cancel culture, your move could have on your business from various quarters, including possible investigations from a weaponized DOJ and IRS, it’s a bold step. This kind of political courage is rare and deserves recognition. It sends a message that business leaders can have political views and support them without fear. Regardless of which party you choose to support.
Your actions foster a sense of community among Trump supporters who might feel marginalized or silenced in other platforms or environments. This community-building aspect is invaluable, offering a space where people feel they can belong and express themselves freely.
In a world where corporate political neutrality is often the safest route, your decision challenges the status quo. It prompts a conversation about what it means to be politically active as a business leader, possibly inspiring others to stand by their convictions.
Thank you, Anthony, for not just talking about your beliefs but actively supporting them in a way that impacts both politics and business. Your example is a beacon for those who believe in taking a stand for what they believe in, regardless of the potential consequences. It’s heartening to see a CEO who understands that leadership isn’t just about leading in business but also in values and community.
Best regards,
John Curtis
Thank you from all of MAGA
An open letter to @stickermule and CEO @ac132
I wanted to reach out to express my sincere admiration for your courageous stance in openly supporting Donald Trump, especially in today’s politically charged environment. Your decision to not only voice your support but to back it… pic.twitter.com/r3sIzyOkg9
— John Curtis (@Johnmcurtis) October 11, 2024
On July 13, the day Trump was shot in an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, PA, Constantino posted the following statement:
Donald Trump was shot. I don’t care what your political views are but the hate for Trump and his supporters has gone too far.
People are terrified to admit they support Trump. I’ve been scared myself. Americans shouldn’t live in fear. I support Trump. Many at Sticker Mule do.
Many at Sticker Mule also support Biden. The political hate needs to stop.Today a bullet almost killed Donald Trump. He’s got 5 kids. One’s still a teenager. No one should have to die and sacrifice the happiness of their family to run for office. If Donald Trump can risk that, the least the rest of us can do is vocalize our support and help end the hate.
The more people realize that kind-hearted, compassionate people support Trump, the sooner the hate will end. I’m speaking up today and will do more in the future to stop this insane political hate.
Awesome people, all over the world, love Trump. Don’t limit your friendships, and diminish your happiness by indulging in political hate. Vocalize your support. Stop the hate.
Anthony Constantino
Cofounder, Sticker Mule
Donald Trump was shot.
I don’t care what your political views are but the hate for Trump and his supporters has gone too far.
People are terrified to admit they support Trump. I’ve been scared myself.
Americans shouldn’t live in fear.
I support Trump. Many at Sticker Mule… pic.twitter.com/mydQpM8GVV
— Sticker Mule (@stickermule) July 14, 2024
Below is an interview with Fox News Digital:
Fair write up by @nytimes! https://t.co/dfvGqMUdEg
— Sticker Mule (@stickermule) October 10, 2024
The chief executive of Sticker Mule displayed his support for Donald Trump in a 100-foot-wide sign atop the company’s headquarters in Amsterdam, New York. The move has drawn pushback from critics and concerns that the sign could distract motorists. https://t.co/bOGabeygLA
— The New York Times (@nytimes) October 10, 2024
Thank you @RobertBluey!https://t.co/PF8Go6mIc3
— Anthony Constantino (@ac132) October 12, 2024
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