About

Almost-Free Croton is born out of joy and love for the village of Croton-on-Hudson, New York.

There are many petty annoyances in life, and many things to disagree about.  Local villagers are generally known for their left-leaning politics but have historically embraced tolerance and put up with others with differing viewpoints.  But the social fabric has been gradually deteriorating here as elsewhere.

When news broke in September 2025 that a disabled veteran and longtime resident named Lenny Amicola had been ordered by village authorities to remove his "TRUMP is my PRESIDENT" flag from his property in the center of town, claiming a violation of village code prohibiting banners, it didn't feel right. Other flags and banners in support of other causes and other flagrant village code violations have been flaunted across the village for many years with nary a peep from the local government.  And the code itself seemed designed more for commercial advertisements, not free expression of individuals residents.

Lenny's cause was taken up by conservative voices on TV and social media and gained national attention, putting incredible pressure on the village.  Eventually President Trump himself got involved in the dispute.  Facing outrage from across the nation, the village backed off and stated that it will no longer enforce its ban on banners like Lenny's pending further review.

We are not connected to Lenny Amicola in any way, besides living in the same village.  And if we were to talk, we would probably disagree with him about many things.  But we support his right to put a simple statement of political fact on his lawn and applaud his bravery sticking up for his rights.  We decry the village leaders' selective enforcement of its code and the years of vitriol leveled at Lenny by some -- but by no means all -- local residents.  We have created products stating an equally simple fact as a play on his flag and as a symbol of support from those villagers who care about the mistreatment of our neighbor.

While we are not a charity, we do not expect to make a profit, given our tiny niche audience.  We will be happy if we can cover our costs and buy a warm drink.  We do this because we enjoy it and believe in it and hope you will too.  Please help spread the message.