News Summary
In Rome, Georgia, businessman Wayne Robinson pays tribute to activist Charlie Kirk with a billboard that gains national attention. The tribute features Kirk’s inspiring message and has generated significant public support, culminating in a community memorial service. Robinson, deeply affected by Kirk’s tragic assassination, believes in honoring his legacy and fostering solidarity within the community through this heartfelt display.
Rome, Georgia – A local businessman has recently paid tribute to the late activist Charlie Kirk with a billboard that has rapidly gained national attention. Wayne Robinson, the president of Wayne Robinson Holdings and owner of a Steak ‘n Shake location in Rome, Georgia, was deeply affected by Kirk’s assassination in September 2025. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically shot while speaking at Utah Valley University, an event that sent shockwaves through communities nationwide.
Robinson felt a strong urge to honor Kirk’s legacy following his death. Driven by admiration for Kirk, whom he had long regarded as a leading voice in political discourse, Robinson collaborated with a marketing partner to design a striking tribute. The billboard features Kirk’s name, along with his birth and death years, and an inspiring message: “Stand up, speak out, stay bold.” This heartfelt tribute was unveiled to the community and quickly went viral, accumulating millions of likes on X (formerly Twitter) and receiving 58,000 local comments within only a few days.
As word spread about the billboard, visitors from surrounding areas began flocking to the Steak ‘n Shake location to pay their respects. The tribute not only resonated locally but also caught the attention of individuals nationwide; Robinson reported receiving calls from as far as Michigan, Wisconsin, and California. Many have expressed gratitude for the tribute and support for the establishment, indicating a growing desire to dine at Steak ‘n Shake as a demonstration of solidarity with the cause for which Kirk stood.
The billboard’s virality was amplified when U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene shared an image of it on her social media, further galvanizing national interest and support. In response to the overwhelming feedback, Steak ‘n Shake’s corporate office reached out to Robinson, approving the tribute and discussing the potential for similar memorials on a national scale.
Robinson views Kirk’s impact as significant, believing he played a crucial role in influencing opinions across the country, and has even referred to him as a martyr for Christ. The billboard is part of a wider movement to honor Kirk, as several other tributes have emerged, including a frozen yogurt shop facing backlash for their own tribute and a petition advocating for Starbucks to feature Kirk’s signature tea order.
A community memorial service for Charlie Kirk is scheduled to take place on September 21, 2025, in Rome, Georgia, allowing residents and supporters to gather and remember his contributions and influence.
This tribute reflects not only Robinson’s personal admiration for Kirk but also a broader shared sentiment within the community and beyond, demonstrating how public figures can inspire movements of remembrance and support in times of loss.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- New York Post: Charlie Kirk Honored by Steak ‘n Shake
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Fox News: Tribute to Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk
- Northwest Georgia News: Evening Prayer Vigil for Charlie Kirk
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Kirk
- Coosa Valley News: Key Events for Charlie Kirk
- Google News: Charlie Kirk Assassination
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond 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 Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
