Photo Flash: Sardi's Restaurant Receives Patriotism Award

The National Museum of Patriotism, a nonprofit research center for exploring the development of patriotism through educational displays and exhibits, founded in July 2004 in Atlanta, GA, presented one of its 2007 Patriotism Awards to the legendary Sardi's Restaurant in New York City at a special ceremony at the restaurant on Tuesday, December 18. The award was accepted by Sean Ricketts, great grandson of Sardi's founder Vincent Sardi, Sr. and grandson of Vincent Sardi, Jr.

The award was presented to Mr. Ricketts by Nick Snider, founder of the museum which is dedicated to promoting the history of patriotism in the United States. This will be the 22nd Patriotism Award given by the Museum to individuals, organizations and corporations who have demonstrated their loyalty and allegiance to the United States through their deeds and actions. Sardi's is the first restaurant to receive this prestigious award which is being bestowed to celebrate Sardi's support of the American theatre and for becoming an integral part of the fabric of America ever since the restaurant opened its doors

Ricketts, who now manages the family restaurant, first began working in the Sardi's kitchen when he was just 17 years of age. "On behalf of the entire Sardi family, I am thrilled to accept this award," he said. Both my late grandfather and great grandfather were patriotic Americans and they, too, would be excited by this tremendous honor.

The National Museum of Patriotism is the only Museum of its kind in America and the Patriotism Award is the highest honor it bestows. The most recent recipient of the award was Brian Kilmead, a host on Fox Cable News' Fox and Friends morning show. Other past recipients included Delta Airlines, U.S. Congressmen and other civilians who have demonstrated loyalty to the country through their actions.  For more information on Sardi's visit www.sardis.com