Artist and activist Scott LoBaido staged a unique protest against New York City's proposed regulations on coal- and wood-fired pizza ovens. He hurled several pizzas over the fence at City Hall, dubbing the demonstration the "New York Pizza Party" and echoing the Boston Tea Party with the cry, "Give us pizza or give us death!"

LoBaido's protest followed reports that the city's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) aims to reduce carbon emissions from these ovens by 75%. Pizzerias would be required to install emission-control filters and undergo regular inspections by engineers, potentially costing owners tens of thousands of dollars. LoBaido criticized the city's priorities, citing other issues like crime and homelessness, and argued that the new regulations threaten small businesses. He also expressed concerns about the changing image of New York, from "tough and gritty" to what he perceives as weaker.

The DEP defended the proposed rules, stating that they are necessary to improve air quality for all residents. While fewer than 100 restaurants are expected to be affected, pizzeria owners have voiced concerns about the financial burden of compliance. One owner revealed he had already spent $20,000 on an air-filter device and ongoing maintenance. Discussions are reportedly underway between the city and restaurant owners regarding the scope of the regulations, specifically whether they will apply to all coal- and wood-fired ovens or only those installed after the rules take effect.