Borough President Vito Fossella, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, Assemblyman Michael Tannousis, Councilman David Carr Deliver new American Flag To Deli Owner Mario Ariemma

Once Borough President Vito Fossella heard the news that a man tore down an American Flag displayed outside Ariemma’s Italian Deli, he had his office call deli owner Mario Ariemma and assure him that he would be getting a new American Flag and that this vandalism of his property and our nation’s flag would not go unanswered.
Borough President Fossella was joined by Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, Assemblyman Mike Tannousis and Councilman David Carr this morning to present a flag to Mr. Ariemma. 
“This is an act of vandalism against one of our respected small businesses and an act of desecration of the American Flag,” said Borough President Fossella. “We have provided a new American Flag to Mr. Ariemma. It demonstrates that we ‘have the backs’ of our small business owners and we have respect for the flag.” 
“Our American Flag is a symbol of freedom and hope for so many around the world and in our community,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “It’s shameful and saddens us that someone would vandalize Mr. Ariemma’s property and our beautiful flag. I’m happy to join my colleagues in replacing the flag for this small business that is a staple in our community.”
“For someone to tear down and destroy the American flag is disgraceful and a slap in the face to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives to protect our nation,” said Assemblyman Tannousis. “This type of despicable behavior will not be tolerated in our community. I commend my partners in government for standing up against this type of behavior and replacing the flag so it can be displayed proudly.”
“The American flag represents the freedoms and democratic ideals this country stands for. Our community will not stand for flag desecration or theft,” said Council Member David Carr. “Thank you to BP Fossella for providing a new flag to Ariemma’s Italian Deli so it can once again proudly wave over this corner of the community.” 

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