While there’s much heated discussion about Arizona’s controversial new immigration laws, the folks at AriZona Iced Tea have somehow found themselves caught in the crossfire, with some even calling for a boycott on the beverage brand. That’s why one of the founders of the company wants everyone to know that, just like inauthentic picante sauce, they’re originally from New York City.

Explains Don Vultaggio:

AriZona Beverages proudly traces its origins back to New York… In 1992, two hard working guys from Brooklyn with a dream created AriZona Iced Tea. Since then … we have remained loyal to our family-run business based in New York. For the last 16 years, our headquarters have remained on Long Island.

While the AriZona folks hope this takes the heat off their iced tea for a bit, there are still several Arizona-based companies being targeted for boycott by those against the immigration laws.

From the NY Daily News:

Actual Arizona firms that face a boycott: Cold Stone Creamery, Dial soap, PF Chang’s, Fender guitars, U-Haul, Go Daddy, Sky Mall, US Airways and Best Western.

San Francisco has banned official city travel to Arizona and pressure is growing on Major League Baseball to move the 2011 All Star Game from Phoenix.

AriZona Iced Tea brewed in New York, actual Arizona firms include Cold Stone Creamery and U-Haul [NY Daily News]

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