In 2017, a Dairy Queen in Kewaskum, Wisconsin grabbed attention online with a message posted in its front window, causing quite a stir across the internet.
Some words or expressions, like ”Merry Christmas,” can stir up controversy, even when they seem harmless to some.
In a world filled with different beliefs and traditions, what feels like a simple greeting to one person might come across as exclusionary to another.
It’s that clash of perspectives that can turn a seemingly innocent phrase into a hot topic. Take, for example, a Dairy Queen in Wisconsin that made headlines with a bold sign on its window — sparking a heated debate online.
For years, a Dairy Queen in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, has proudly displayed a ”politically incorrect” sign on its window. While locals have long been familiar with it, back in 2017, an out-of-town customer took notice and set the internet on fire.
The store’s owner, Kevin Scheunemann, is the one who put up the sign, and he stands by its message.
“I felt the sign was appropriate to hang in terms of being transparent about the views of the owner and staff supporting God and country,” Scheunemann explained to WeAreGreenBay.com.
The sign in Kewaskum
So, what did the sign actually say?
It proudly declared the restaurant’s stance on “political incorrectness,” emphasizing holiday greetings like “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Easter,” and “God Bless America.” It also included the phrase “In God we trust” and offered free sundaes to veterans on Veteran’s Day.
According to the owner, he decided to put up the sign back in 2012, after a customer was upset by Christian music playing inside the restaurant.
“I just felt it was more appropriate to disclose these kinds of expressions,” Scheunemann continued. “It just seems that those kinds of values and principles are becoming controversial in society.”
Despite the occasional controversy, Scheunemann stands firm, willing to have a conversation with anyone who disagrees, but also proud of his values.
”Pretty tasteless”
But as mentioned, not everyone agreed with Scheunemann’s perspective. One customer from Oregon posted the sign on Dairy Queen’s national Facebook page in 2017, complaining about its exclusive nature.
This sparked a flood of negative comments, with people like Steve Thomas from Milwaukee saying, “I feel this is a pretty tasteless thing to have posted at one of your franchises. The part I disagree with is his use of the term ‘snowflake’… he’s alienating half the population by using that term.”
Thomas continued, “The other thing I don’t like is him belittling ‘safe spaces.’ Young adults need a safe place to talk when they’re struggling but won’t go because of the criticism they might receive. That’s why I disagree with this sign.”
Despite the backlash, many showed their support for Scheunemann, with some people even traveling long distances to snap a picture with the owner.
I just had to post this. Naturally, it was really busy tonight. This customer comes up to counter and says he has…Posted by Kevin Scheunemann on Saturday, June 30, 2018
In response to the controversy, Dairy Queen released a statement:
“American Dairy Queen Corporation does not encourage our independently owned and operated franchisees to post non-business related messages. This sign expresses the views of this independent owner only and does not speak for ADQ Corporation or other franchise owners. We expect our franchisees and employees to treat every customer with dignity and respect.”
New controversy
Then in 2020, the same Dairy Queen found itself at the center of another debate when a Donald Trump campaign sign, placed next to the restaurant’s parking lot, was nearly stolen.
CCTV footage showed two people trying to take the large Trump sign, but they couldn’t fit it into their car. Scheunemann, who posted about the incident on Facebook, even offered a $500 Dairy Queen gift card for information leading to the suspects’ arrest.
Love it or hate it, Dairy Queen’s politically charged sign has certainly sparked conversation over the years.
Whether you’re all for Scheunemann’s unapologetic stance or feel it crosses a line, it’s clear that his message has struck a chord with people from all walks of life. From heated debates on social media to those who travel miles just to snap a photo with the sign, it’s a reminder of how a single statement can ignite a much larger conversation.
So, what do you think? Does Scheunemann’s sign represent standing strong in your beliefs, or is it a step too far in today’s divided world?
Justin and Hailey Bieber are EXPECTING FIRST BABY — They Reveal the Happy News in an Unusual Setting (Video inside)
Hailey Bieber, 27, is expecting her first baby with husband, Justin Bieber, 30. She disclosed her pregnancy news alongside the pop singer through a lovely Instagram video.
The celebrity opted to announce the big news to the world while exchanging a tender kiss during yet another vow renewal ceremony, this time, in Hawaii. The model showcased her growing belly, adorned in a tailor-made lace wedding gown by Anthony Vaccarello for Yves Saint Laurent, while she flaunted a new diamond ring.
In September 2018, Justin and Hailey Bieber had initially exchanged vows at a courthouse in New York City, coinciding with the day they acquired their marriage license. Later, the couple tied the knot again in a second ceremony held at the opulent Montage Palmetto Bluffs resort in South Carolina on September 30, 2019, surrounded by close friends and family.
Kendall Jenner swiftly expressed her emotions in the comment section of Hailey’s Instagram post, exclaiming, “Ahhhh, here come the tears again.” While Kim Kardashian commented, “I love you guys sooooo much!!!!”
Chrissy Teigen conveyed her excitement, writing, “EEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!! You are going to be an amazing amazing mommy oh boy get ready!!! So exciting, so happy for you both!!”
Kylie Jenner echoed sentiments of love, commenting, “I love you guys!!!! Ahhhhhhhh” while Kris Jenner wrote, “We are so so excited, can’t wait can’t wait what a blessing!!!!!”
Last year, while the couple has expressed a desire for children, Hailey had voiced concerns about raising a family in the public eye, saying, “I want kids so bad, but I get scared. It’s enough that people say things about my husband or my friends… I can’t imagine having to confront people saying things about a child. We can only do the best we can to raise them. As long as they feel loved and safe.”
Justin and Hailey’s journey began in 2009 when they were introduced by Hailey’s father, leading to a brief romance in 2016 amidst Justin’s tumultuous relationship with Selena Gomez. After finally parting ways with Gomez in 2018, Justin found solace in Hailey’s companionship, and they’ve been inseparable since.
Despite facing challenges, including a difficult first year of marriage, Justin and Hailey have openly discussed their struggles with trust and trauma. However, they’ve emerged stronger and more stable in their relationship.
Celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary last September, both Justin and Hailey took to Instagram to share heartfelt tributes to one another.
Hailey’s post was short yet poignant, a simple “5. I love you.” While Justin’s tribute to his beloved wife was more elaborate; he expressed deep affection and gratitude for their journey together, writing, “To the most precious, my beloved. 5 years. You have captivated my heart. I know from the depths of my soul down to my bones that this journey with you will only exceed our wildest expectations. So let’s keep dreaming big baby. Cheers to forever and ever. I love you with every fiber of my being. HAPPY 5TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!”
Recently, Bieber took to social media to share a glimpse into his emotional journey through a collection of photos capturing different facets of his life. It was the last two images that resonated deeply with fans. In these selfies, Bieber revealed tears streaming down his face, showcasing his raw vulnerability and inviting the world to witness his emotional state.
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