A Night Out Turns Patriotic
One evening, Victor Fiorillo decided to grab a drink at the Old Philadelphia Bar, a well-known spot in the city. As he entered, he noticed a sign on the window that caught his attention: “If you’re not proud to be an American, do not bother to come in.” It was a bold statement, and it gave him pause. Despite his hesitation, he decided to go in and enjoy a beer.
An Unexpected Moment of Unity
As he settled in, something unexpected happened. A man walked up to the jukebox, ready to pick a song. Before he inserted his coin, he announced to the bar that he was a former firefighter and a Mexican, joking about the second part. Then, he chose Lee Greenwood’s 1984 hit “God Bless the USA.”
As the song played, the atmosphere in the bar changed. Every person in the room stood up and began singing along to the patriotic anthem, united in their pride for the country. The lyrics echoed through the bar:
“And I’m proud to be an American,
Where at least I know I’m free…”
A Bar with Strong Values
The Old Philadelphia Bar, which has been a staple in the neighborhood for years, is known for its patriotic atmosphere. The sign on the door reflects its stance: if you’re not proud to be an American, this may not be the place for you. With cheap pints and a no-nonsense vibe, the bar has become a local hub for people looking to enjoy a casual, straightforward atmosphere.
However, not everyone agrees with the bar’s values. A local woman expressed concerns about the bar’s exclusivity, especially for non-white patrons, and some even fear it’s not a welcoming space for people who don’t fit a certain profile.
Despite the controversy, the bar’s manager remains unapologetic, stating, “If you’re in this county, you should be proud to be an American.”
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