The “Closed” sign hanging in the window of Polly’s Pantry Royal Tearoom held more meaning this weekend, marking the end of the popular Wildwood restaurant’s run.
After news broke last week that owners John and Tricia “Polly” Bennett would not be able to renew their E2 work visas, the couple announced that they would to return to England this weekend.
During the week, the owners expressed their disappointment in the decision passed down by the Department of Homeland Security to not renew their visas. “I want to stay in America, but I can’t. I don’t want to be an illegal immigrant. I love America. My husband and I have had an American flag in our house all our married lives” said Ms. Bennett of the abrupt closing of their business.
After news broke last week of the owners’ plight, the public show of support for the tea room was palpable.
“These are not illegal immigrants trying to sneak into America. These are business owners who employ people in Florida. These are good people” said Villager Hazel Kaufman, one of the final visitors to the tea room.
Despite the public outcry over the closure, there were some who expressed a less-than-sympathetic attitude, suggesting that the couple couldn’t hope to “stay in America forever.”
In a letter to Villages-News.com, Villager Yolanda Ulrich of Sunset Pointe suggested that if the roles were reversed, “Americans would not be able to work and prosper in another country without some time limits.”
Did you ever get a chance to visit the tea room? Share your experiences with us by commenting below or by sending us a letter!