News Summary
Wayne Robinson, owner of a Steak ‘n Shake in Rome, Georgia, is paying tribute to slain activist Charlie Kirk with a billboard featuring his image and a powerful message. Despite the lack of corporate approval, this heartfelt action has garnered national attention and support, with plans for additional tributes across the country. Robinson’s initiative has resonated within the community, drawing thousands to celebrate Kirk’s legacy while sparking discussions about activism in business.
Steak ‘n Shake Owner Pays Tribute to Slain Activist with Billboard
In an extraordinary move that’s captured the hearts of many, Wayne Robinson, a businessman and owner of a Steak ‘n Shake restaurant in Rome, Georgia, has displayed a stunning billboard to honor Charlie Kirk, a well-known activist who was tragically assassinated recently. The billboard features a striking image of Kirk alongside his birth and death years (1993-2025), with the empowering message, “Stand Up, Speak Out, Stay Bold.” This heartfelt tribute resonates deeply in a time of loss and reflection.
What’s interesting, however, is that Robinson’s gesture wasn’t officially sanctioned by the corporate office of Steak ‘n Shake. While he took the initiative to purchase the billboard on his own, this has sparked some debate among the broader community. That said, corporate leaders have acknowledged the tremendous sentiment behind the message and expressed their appreciation, even though they initially required prior approval for the use of the Steak ‘n Shake name.
A National Response
Robinson’s passion didn’t stop there. Following the support from corporate leaders, plans are already in motion to erect additional billboards across the country, ensuring that the spirit of Charlie Kirk is honored from coast to coast. Almost as soon as the original billboard went live, it went viral, drawing attention from fans who are now driving hundreds of miles just to dine at Robinson’s Steak ‘n Shake location. This outpouring of support has transformed what was once a simple restaurant stop into a hub of celebration and remembrance.
The local response has been nothing short of overwhelming, with Robinson reporting about 58,000 local comments online acknowledging the tribute. It’s heartwarming to see a community come together to uplift each other during challenging times. Among those who contributed to the buzz was Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who shared an image of the billboard on her social media platforms, amplifying its visibility and driving even more traffic and goodwill toward Robinson’s establishment.
Remembering Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on September 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University. His untimely death has left a significant void in the lives of many. Robinson, moved by the impact Kirk had on young people’s lives, decided it was essential to keep his memory alive in a meaningful way. Many have reached out to Robinson, placing phone calls to express their gratitude for the tribute and sharing their own memories of what Kirk meant to them.
Continued Tributes
It’s clear that Robinson’s billboard is just one of many tributes sprouting up in memory of Kirk. The regional and national response signifies a broader community effort to honor a life that touched so many. While debates about the appropriateness of business involvement in activism continue, the sentiment remains strong: a tribute in good faith can spark connections and discussions that bring people together.
As the corporate office of Steak ‘n Shake responds positively to Robinson’s initiative, it’s reassuring to see that appreciation for community action can lead to greater engagement nationwide. The move represents a significant stand in a time when many young individuals are seeking direction and inspiration. The motto of “Stand Up, Speak Out, Stay Bold” encourages everyone to embrace the courage of their convictions, fostering discussions around the legacies we leave behind.
As more billboards are set to appear, one thing is certain: the memory of Charlie Kirk, his influence, and the brave acts of individuals like Wayne Robinson will linger in the hearts of many.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AOL: Steak ‘n Shake Owner Tribute
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- Taste of Country: Charlie Kirk Tribute Billboard
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- 973 The Dawg: Charlie Kirk Tribute Billboard
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Kirk
- Google News: Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
