Despite opposition, Chick-fil-A lands in Redwood City with long lines | Peninsula Foodist | Elena Kadvany | Mountain View Online |

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Despite opposition, Chick-fil-A lands in Redwood City with long lines

Uploaded: Jul 29, 2020
Despite some initial controversy, a franchise of fast food chain Chick-fil-A is now open for takeout at 536 Whipple Ave. in Redwood City.

A long line of cars waiting in the drive-through snaked well out of the parking lot and down the block at the chain's grand opening last Thursday, July 23, according to videos posted on social media.


The newly opened Chick-fil-A in Redwood City. Photo via Chick-fil-A Redwood City's Facebook.

San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa had publicly opposed Chick-fil-A's plan to open in Redwood City, writing in a letter to the chain's CEO that "your company's anti-LGBTQ policies do not represent the values of the overwhelming majority of San Mateo County residents."

Chick-fil-A came under fire in 2012 when Dan Cathy, the founder's son, said that he believes in the "biblical definition of the family unit." Chick-fil-A was also criticized for making donations to charities that oppose same-sex marriage.

Last November, Chick-fil-A announced it would no longer donate to those charities and would instead give $9 million to support education, homelessness and hunger initiatives. The company said that at every new location it opened, it would make a $25,000 donation to a local food bank. (Chick-fil-A did not immediately respond to an inquiry about which local food bank was supported with the Redwood City opening.)

In response, Canepa told local TV station KPIX that this "shows that Chick-fil-A has a heart" and that "instead of protesting Chick-fil-A, we want to cut the ribbon with Chick-fil-A because of the actions they've taken."

Chick-fil-A started offering delivery on the Peninsula out of DoorDash's Redwood City commissary kitchen in November.

The brick-and-mortar restaurant is open for drive-through or walk-up pickup orders Monday through Saturday. It's closed on Sunday, as are all Chick-fil-A's in keeping with founder Truett Cathy's Christian faith.
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Comments

Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 8:17 am

What difference does it make if the CEO and corporate board of Chick-Fil-A are supportive of conventional 'biblical-defined' families?

Everyone is entitled to their opinion & those who beg to differ can go eat chicken elsewhere.

Mountain View had an opportunity to have a Chick-Fil-A
of its own at the previous Sizzler site but it was voted down by the city council due to various complaints by outraged indignants.

All that matters is that Chick-Fil-A offers tasty chicken that customers enjoy.


Posted by Joseph E. Davis, a resident of Woodside: Emerald Hills,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 8:41 am

It was wholly inappropriate for Canepa to oppose the opening of a business on the basis of its political contributions.


Posted by Eater, a resident of Mountain View,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 8:58 am

"the majority of residents" seem actually to want this business, if it already has long lines!

Typical of today's politicians and the narcissistic bubbles they and their supporters inhabit, to work to suppress a business on ideological-purity grounds, thereby suppressing the ACTUAL opinion of "residents." Who will decide for themselves, given the opportunity.

In Mountain View we were denied that opportunity, by those who presumed that it was their place to decide for us.


Posted by Crap is crap, a resident of Another Palo Alto neighborhood,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 9:20 am

May be Canepa was responding to the desire of some of his constituents by opposing the opening.
Hard to tell if the majority of RWC actually want this business, since I am sure the long line of cars contained residents from the entire area

I tend to avoid businesses that are run by intolerant, hateful born agains, so I will be passing on their “crap on a bun" sandwiches.


Posted by Resident, a resident of Another Palo Alto neighborhood,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 9:35 am

The past criticisms by the owners of this chain have been bashed about and the restaurant itself now supports other causes, so why bring up the history yet again?

The evidence that the food is popular and that people are excited to see it open and try it out is what should be discussed now, not the past history which is no longer relevant.

Talk about the food, talk about the long lines, talk about its service, talk about the fact that it is closed on Sundays, but the criticisms are now outdated and tiresome.


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 9:39 am

>> "I tend to avoid businesses that are run by intolerant, hateful born agains, so I will be passing on their “crap on a bun" sandwiches."

^ Which is why you were blessed with 'free will' by your maker.

Criminy...when did eating chicken become a political issue?

What's next?

Since Kentucky was once a slave state with 40,000 African slaves as per the 1800 census, should diners boycott this establishment as well? Not to mention that 'colonel' is an honorary southern title that was granted to countless individuals, many of whom were slave owners.

BTW...an LGBT colleague at work
enjoys dining at Chick-Fill-A & Chick-Fill-A welcomes his patronage.


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 9:39 am

>> "I tend to avoid businesses that are run by intolerant, hateful born agains, so I will be passing on their “crap on a bun" sandwiches."

^ Which is why you were blessed with 'free will' by your maker.

Criminy...when did eating chicken become a political issue?

What's next?

Since Kentucky was once a slave state with 40,000 African slaves as per the 1800 census, should diners boycott this establishment as well? Not to mention that 'colonel' is an honorary southern title that was granted to countless individuals, many of whom were slave owners.

BTW...an LGBT colleague at work
enjoys dining at Chick-Fill-A & Chick-Fill-A welcomes his patronage.


Posted by TheMiddleRoad, a resident of Old Palo Alto,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 9:44 am

Where is David? I thought he was planning on protesting at it's opening?

You mean a politician was just all talk? Shocking!!

this is another example of the left ignoring the working people of this country and focusing boycotting a business because the owner's son had a neighbor who knew someone who made a controversial statement: Amazing!


Posted by Anonym, a resident of The Crossings,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 11:10 am

If you are not with us, you are against us ?
i totally agree with "Birds Of A Feather" comment.
Many businesses back in the days didn't allow people of other racial/ethnic backgrounds, will that be a reason for boycotting those businesses ? I am not sure why all this fuss is about.
If Chick-fil A is not supporting the "LGBTQ" community, i don't think they are doing any harm to the LGBTQ community as well.
Few decades ago same sex marriage was not allowed in many countries around the world, and many other strict rules. Things are progressing now.
Let's say Chick Fil-A had some disagreements with the "LGBTQ" community, now things are different, they might have overcame that phase and have different approaches. Does it mean to boycott and give them a hard time ? and bad publicity ? If you really wanted Chick Fil A to be more progressive, by boycotting them/and not allowing them to open their business in certain areas, you are only doing more harm. The reasonable approach would be having "dialogue" discussions and open table conversations, and disagreements or misunderstandings might be dissolved.
You can use this argument in many ways, Chick Fil-A is not supporting "name any religious or ethnic group" and so on.
There are many businesses that can create a buzz because they close on "Friday" or "Saturday" or etc.
People should be allowed to have their own beliefs and freedom as long as their freedom doesn't step on/harm you and others around.


Posted by Anonym, a resident of The Crossings,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 11:11 am

If you are not with us, you are against us ?
i totally agree with "Birds Of A Feather" comment.
Many businesses back in the days didn't allow people of other racial/ethnic backgrounds, will that be a reason for boycotting those businesses ? I am not sure why all this fuss is about.
If Chick-fil A is not supporting the "LGBTQ" community, i don't think they are doing any harm to the LGBTQ community as well.
Few decades ago same sex marriage was not allowed in many countries around the world, and many other strict rules. Things are progressing now.
Let's say Chick Fil-A had some disagreements with the "LGBTQ" community, now things are different, they might have overcame that phase and have different approaches. Does it mean to boycott and give them a hard time ? and bad publicity ? If you really wanted Chick Fil A to be more progressive, by boycotting them/and not allowing them to open their business in certain areas, you are only doing more harm. The reasonable approach would be having "dialogue" discussions and open table conversations, and disagreements or misunderstandings might be dissolved.
You can use this argument in many ways, Chick Fil-A is not supporting "name any religious or ethnic group" and so on.
There are many businesses that can create a buzz because they close on "Friday" or "Saturday" or etc.
People should be allowed to have their own beliefs and freedom as long as their freedom doesn't step on/harm you and others around.


Posted by Anonym, a resident of The Crossings,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 11:11 am

If you are not with us, you are against us ?
i totally agree with "Birds Of A Feather" comment.
Many businesses back in the days didn't allow people of other racial/ethnic backgrounds, will that be a reason for boycotting those businesses ? I am not sure why all this fuss is about.
If Chick-fil A is not supporting the "LGBTQ" community, i don't think they are doing any harm to the LGBTQ community as well.
Few decades ago same sex marriage was not allowed in many countries around the world, and many other strict rules. Things are progressing now.
Let's say Chick Fil-A had some disagreements with the "LGBTQ" community, now things are different, they might have overcame that phase and have different approaches. Does it mean to boycott and give them a hard time ? and bad publicity ? If you really wanted Chick Fil A to be more progressive, by boycotting them/and not allowing them to open their business in certain areas, you are only doing more harm. The reasonable approach would be having "dialogue" discussions and open table conversations, and disagreements or misunderstandings might be dissolved.
You can use this argument in many ways, Chick Fil-A is not supporting "name any religious or ethnic group" and so on.
There are many businesses that can create a buzz because they close on "Friday" or "Saturday" or etc.
People should be allowed to have their own beliefs and freedom as long as their freedom doesn't step on/harm you and others around.


Posted by Crap is crap, a resident of Another Palo Alto neighborhood,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 11:23 am

Criminy...when did eating chicken become a political issue?“

Boycotts have been part of the American fabric for decades.
No ne is stopping you from eating at chick fil a. I will skip the unclean chicken on a bun as I prefer not support companies that do not respect my religious beliefs.


“Where is David? I thought he was planning on protesting at it's opening?"

Perhaps you should actually read the story and David's subsequent comment.


Posted by West Menlo, a resident of Menlo Park: Sharon Heights,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 1:05 pm

@crap is crap
So, you tend to avoid businesses which are run by the intolerantâ€"-which makes you (wait for it)..... intolerant!!


Posted by awatkins, a resident of Woodside: Skywood/Skylonda,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 1:48 pm
awatkins is a registered user.

"Perhaps you should actually read the story and David's subsequent comment."

Which story are you referring to and what commenbt of Canepa's are you referring to?


Posted by Crap is carp, a resident of Another Palo Alto neighborhood,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 3:31 pm

Awatkins:

The middle road said:" Where is David? I thought he was planning on protesting at it's opening?"
The above story clearly states:

“In re sponse, Canepa told local TV station KPIX that this "shows that Chick-fil-A has a heart" and that "instead of protesting Chick-fil-A, we want to cut the ribbon with Chick-fil-A because of the actions they've taken."

Any other questions , awatkins???


West is west:

You are confused , me not buying from a certain business does not make me intolerant. I have no obligation to eat their crap sandwiches.
As for intolerant, a religion that claims that only their way of worship is correct and people who practice other religions are going to hell sounds intolerant to me.

Any other questions or comments?


Posted by Brian, a resident of Menlo Park: Sharon Heights,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 3:44 pm
Brian is a registered user.

Thrilled to see this!


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 5:00 pm

>>"I will skip the unclean chicken on a bun as I prefer not support companies that do not respect my religious beliefs."

As in kosher?

If so...that is understandable given certain dietary guidelines that require a shochet to officially slaughter & inspect the chicken(s) as per the Hebrew faith.

On the other hand, I know of no religion that discourages dining at Chick-Fil-A due to its CEO's advocacy of traditional, bible-sanctioned marriages between a man & woman.

Or of an organized LGBT religion that encourages a mass boycott of Chick-Fil-A.

It's just chicken...and people can eat wherever they want, including yourself.





Posted by Crap is crap, a resident of Another Palo Alto neighborhood,
on Jul 29, 2020 at 7:15 pm

Birds of a Feather:

"On the other hand, I know of no religion that discourages dining at Chick-Fil-A due to its CEO's advocacy of traditional, bible-sanctioned marriages between a man & woman."

No one said there was.

" Or of an organized LGBT religion that encourages a mass boycott of Chick-Fil-A."

No one said there was.
However it seems the CEO changed his donation practices:
Web Link

"It's just chicken...and people can eat wherever they want, including yourself."

That is what I said.

Any other insights you care to share???


Posted by Fred, a resident of another community,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 12:52 am

So they aren't open Sunday. Their parking lot would be a nice central location for a Sunday breakfast for the homeless. Maybe the Sundays other than Street Church's once a month Sunday breakfast.


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 8:06 am

>>"Any other insights you care to share???"

^ Yes...in terms of an actual religion (or a political platform), you have apparently channeled your contempt for Chick-Fil-A into ones of your very own.








Posted by West Menlo, a resident of Menlo Park: Sharon Heights,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 10:34 am

Hey @crap:

Yes. One more comment. A religion that says it doesn't believe in gay marriage is not being intolerant. They're not forcing you to worship there. If you don't like it, go worship somewhere else or not at all. Or go eat a hamburger instead.

Any more questions?


Posted by USA, a resident of Old Mountain View,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 11:31 am
USA is a registered user.

So, it turns out that the cancel culture is run by a whiny but small group of ideologues who try to force their views on others. LOL.


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 11:58 am

>> "So, it turns out that the cancel culture is run by a whiny but small group of ideologues who try to force their views on others. LOL."

^ Apparently so...now we have 'politically correct' chicken.


Posted by crap is crap, a resident of Another Palo Alto neighborhood,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 1:12 pm

@ west Menlo

"Yes. One more comment. A religion that says it doesn't believe in gay marriage is not being intolerant. They're not forcing you to worship there. If you don't like it, go worship somewhere else or not at all. Or go eat a hamburger instead. "

My definition of what I considered to be intolerant is stated in my post above:
"As for intolerant, a religion that claims that only their way of worship is correct and people who practice other religions are going to hell sounds intolerant to me."

Understand now? Let me know if you need any more clarification.

And please feel free to praise Jesus while eating your chicken sandwich


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 30, 2020 at 2:26 pm

>>"As for intolerant, a religion that claims that only their way of worship is correct and people who practice other religions are going to hell sounds intolerant to me."

^ Appreciate the clarification as your observation is seemingly targeted towards a certain non-Judeo Christian faith that its fanatics tend to proclaim as superior to all other religions.

FWIW...biblical scholars have noted that Jesus primarily dined on local fish, unleavened bread & wine.

No condemnation of Chick-Fil-A mentioned in the gospels so eating there is probably OK regardless of previous corporate perspectives towards non-traditional marital unions.

Assuming that the LGBT community is more than welcome to dine at Chick-Fill-A...that is called progress!


Posted by Rick, a resident of Adobe-Meadow,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 9:20 am

All this discussion seems to miss the point that all -fast food- fried chicken is an abomination before the Lord and, most importantly, the FSM. Seriously, I am a huge fan of fried chicken and fat-laden food, but No, just no as far as KFC, Starbird, Churches, fil-a, McDonalds nuggets, Chicken stix. . .


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 10:07 am

>>"All this discussion seems to miss the point that all -fast food- fried chicken is an abomination before the Lord and, most importantly, the FSM."

^ Are you referring to The Flying Spaghetti Monster...supreme deity of the 'Pastafarians'?

If so...this thread is beginning to take on a life of its own.


Posted by Green Gables, a resident of Duveneck/St. Francis,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 10:59 am
Green Gables is a registered user.

The chicken sandwiches are fabulous.


Posted by Crescent Park Mom, a resident of Crescent Park,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 11:29 am
Crescent Park Mom is a registered user.

Love their food! Wish they were in Palo Alto!!!


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 12:00 pm

>> "Thrilled to see this!"

>>"The chicken sandwiches are fabulous."

>> "Love their food! Wish they were in Palo Alto!!!"

^ The positive reviews are in & this should silence the critics.

RWC is a long ways (for some PA & MV residents) to go for one of their chicken sandwiches along with other menu items.

Perhaps an opportunity will arise for more convenient locations further south as the
earlier 'controversy' no longer holds any water...except for malcontents promoting a trivial agenda.


Posted by MiddleOfTheRoad, a resident of Old Palo Alto,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 12:18 pm

I believe the changes that David was talking about were made before he made his virtue stance of opposing a well run business. he was just trying to make a name for himself by taking a stab at a good business.

All this posturing by politicians like David is just a way to make headlines without really addressing any issues that truly affect people's lives. I'm not surprised.

Hey David, do something that makes a difference in someone's life. Go get a sandwich at Chick Fil A while you think about that.


Posted by Steven Nelson, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 2:20 pm
Steven Nelson is a registered user.

Birds of Cuesta Park / I think good old CA (San Francisco) does indeed have an organized religious church that probably does officially (or at least did) support an economic boycott of that chicken place.

The Metropolitan Community Church of San Francisco.
mccsf.org


Posted by wander3r, a resident of Community Center,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 2:34 pm
wander3r is a registered user.

My goodness, if I stopped supporting businesses whose owners/CEOs/whatever didn't believe exactly as I do, I suppose I'd never do business again. Nor would I have any friends if the same concept were to apply to people.


Posted by Birds Of A Feather, a resident of Cuesta Park,
on Jul 31, 2020 at 6:46 pm

>> " I think good old CA (San Francisco) does indeed have an organized religious church that probably does officially (or at least did) support an economic boycott of that chicken place."

Not surprisingly as per the www.mightycause.com webpage...

>> "MCCSF has been a pioneer in the field of LGBT spirituality and creating a space for queer community. Initially, MCC was a vocal advocate for Gay Liberation, a safe place to come out, to explore our lives as proudly spiritual and sexual beings."

^ That said, a consumer boycott should be one of personal choice and not a political issue that impacts other afficionados & consumers who wish to partake in something as innocuous as a non-sexually oriented fast-food chicken sandwich.

Perhaps this particular 'religious' stand/boycott is what 'crap is crap' was referring to.


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