After being the target of recurring acts of vandalism, Vuong Pham said he and his employees are relieved that charges were laid against a 46-year-old Regina man.
“I felt relieved quickly,” said Pham, who went on to explain how the community’s support helped to carry Country Corner Donuts through their time of difficulty.
“Before, the weekend would be slow. But now people and their families meet up here. It makes you feel good.”
Pham was also overjoyed after receiving dozens of holiday cards from customers during December.
“Not only people from Regina [have shown support], but even people from areas like La Ronge and Saskatoon,” Pham said. “And now we are good friends.
“I’m very thankful for the people in Regina, the people who know me, and the people who didn’t know me until now.”
According to an article by Global News, 46-year-old Anthony John Barry is behind the graffiti and property damage to Country Corner Donuts. Barry is scheduled to appear in Regina Provincial Court on February 14, after being charged with five counts of mischief under $5,000.
After the charges were laid, many city residents have been coming forward on social media to show their continuing support to Pham, his employees and the business.
A thread on Reddit has accumulated multiple Country Corner Donut enthusiasts, who have shared their positive thoughts on Pham.
“Wow, Vuong sounds like a truly genuine person!” One user said. “I’ve heard it is good, but I will definitely make an effort to go visit this business.”
Another user added, “Great business, my younger son wanted b-day donuts so we loaded up. Maybe the owner’s gentle approach and forgiveness will change this person’s [Barry’s] heart.”
Regina Leader Post had also taken to Twitter, discussing Pham’s business and the recent charges against Barry. Their article stated that Pham was notified of these charges just days before Christmas, and that during the process, he had been paid a visit by NDP leader Ryan Meili and Regina’s mayor Sandra Masters for support.
Country Corner Donuts, which Pham has owned since 1989, continues to be a well-loved business within the Queen City.
This situation had begun back in November, when Country Corner Donuts was vandalized and racist slurs were spray-painted on the side of the building. The business had also experienced other forms of property damage, including rocks being thrown through its windows.
This disturbance quickly caught the community of Regina’s attention, as many residents showed their support through financial donations, kind online reviews and time spent helping clean up debris.
