Tea Party Mourns Death of Philly Cheesesteak Legend
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}In this Dec. 14, 2007 file photo, Joey Vento, owner of Geno's Steaks, displays a sign during a recess of a Commission on Human Relations hearing in Philadelphia. (AP2007)
The Tea Party is mourning the death of Philadelphia cheesesteak magnate Joey Vento, who over the past few years had earned a national reputation for his outspoken views on illegal immigration and other issues.
Vento, the founder of the famed Geno's Steaks, died Tuesday from a heart attack. He was 71.
The Independence Hall Tea Party Association released a statement describing him as a "great friend of the conservative cause and the Tea Party movement."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"Joey Vento was, and will always be, an inspiration to the cause of freedom and liberty," association President Teri Adams said.
Vento was a local legend for decades, operating his popular sandwich shop across the street from arch-rival Pat's. He stirred controversy in 2006 when he posted a sign in his restaurant telling customers to "speak English" when ordering. The sign prompted a discrimination complaint -- which was later dismissed -- but as Vento fought it he emerged in the media as somewhat of a conservative pundit.
The Independence Hall Tea Party Association had named him their "Patriot of the Year" in 2011. Vento regularly spoke at their events. During his July 4 acceptance speech, he railed against the problem of illegal immigration as well as the new federal health care overhaul.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Independence Hall Tea Party Association covers Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey.