Local Frozen Yogurt Shop Faces Backlash After Paying Tribute to Charlie Kirk

Local Frozen Yogurt Shop Faces Backlash After Paying Tribute to Charlie Kirk

A small business in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is under fire for its tribute to Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. Grooveberries Frozen Yogurt has been placing stickers featuring Kirk’s image on its signature red cups, along with the years of his life, ‘1993-2025.’

Sarah and Chase Gibson, the owners of Grooveberries and parents to three young children, reported receiving death threats following the outpouring of outrage over their tribute. The couple conveyed their experience during an interview with Fox News Digital.

“We have been receiving hate. One person even said we should be dead,” shared Sarah Gibson. Despite the hostility, she noted that their community’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive.

Community Support Amidst Controversy

In response to the negative attention, Sarah commented, “I love how supportive our community is. Their support for Charlie and what he stands for completely outshines the negativity that we’ve faced.” This sentiment reflects a growing trend among local businesses where community backing often strengthens amidst controversy.

Grooveberries has experienced a barrage of hate through direct emails and negative reviews on social media. One email that caught attention stated, “You guys are sick. The man is dead; thank God for that. You should be dead for what you’re doing.” Another review labeled the Gibsons as ‘White supremacists,’ urging others to avoid supporting their business.

Reactions on Social Media

Online comments vary widely. One individual posted, “I don’t like fascism mixed in my yogurt,” while another sarcastically remarked, “Imagine using a fascist’s death to increase prices to rip off other fascists. I actually support that.” These mixed reactions highlight the polarizing nature of Kirk’s legacy.

Plans for Addressing Online Hate

The Gibsons plan to reach out to Meta to discuss the troubling comments made about them online. Sarah argued, “People need to know that this is how those on the Left choose to handle people they don’t agree with.” Their desire to maintain the tribute signifies a commitment to standing by their beliefs despite adversity.

Chase Gibson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the backlash has only encouraged the local community to rally around them even more. Sarah remarked, “Charlie Kirk died a martyr for his faith in Jesus Christ. He spoke the truth even when it was difficult. He never backed down from his stance on spreading the truth with the goal of saving the lost.”

Honoring a Legacy

The Gibsons believe that honoring Kirk’s legacy is paramount. Sarah stated, “We refuse to allow his voice to go silent. The world as a whole needs us to continue carrying his message forward in his earthly absence.” Their determination reflects the significance of legacy and memory for many community members.

Political commentator Stephanie Hamill expressed her own reflections regarding the reaction to Kirk’s death. She remarked that witnessing people celebrate his passing shocked her deeply. Hamill feels it is essential to recognize small acts of kindness, such as the tribute cups at Grooveberries, that honor someone’s life.

Personal Experiences and Community Connection

During a family outing, Stephanie discovered the tribute cups at Grooveberries and felt uplifted to see such a nod to Kirk’s legacy. She stated, “Regardless of where anyone stands on Charlie’s political views, he was a husband and a father. His life was taken from him in one of the most horrific ways possible, and honoring his memory should never be controversial.”

Grooveberries, which opened in 2021, has centered its business model around its faith and values. The company has made it clear on its website that faith remains integral to their lives and work. This strength in conviction has led Sarah to place a significant order for more Kirk stickers and continue making tribute cups available for customers who support the initiative.

Giving Back to Honor Kirk

The Gibsons have been tracking all sales related to the tribute and plan to send a portion of the funds to Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, in support of what they call a “blueberry budget.” This reference comes from Mrs. Kirk’s public statement following her husband’s tragic death, showcasing a heartfelt commitment to honoring Kirk’s memory while also supporting his family.

This situation serves as a case study on the intersection of local business, community, and political beliefs. As Grooveberries continues to navigate this challenging landscape, their journey reflects broader societal themes, including the importance of standing firm in one’s beliefs while fostering community support.

Empowerment Through Adversity

In these trying times, the response from the community illustrates how shared values can empower individuals and small businesses to withstand adversity. As Grooveberries remains steadfast in its tribute to Charlie Kirk, it highlights the enduring impact that personal convictions can have on a community.