Buffalo’s Eastside Tops Reopens 2 Months After Mass Shooting
Written by Jazzy T on July 15, 2022
The only grocery store on Buffalo’s Eastside will reopen on Friday following the mass shooting at the Tops on Jefferson Avenue. On the 2 month anniversary of the racially motivated attack that killed 10 beautiful souls, Tops President John Persons was joined by several elected officials and the victims families to announce the reopening of the store; which has undergone redesign and renovation.
Outside, Tops says there will be an urban street art exhibit in collaboration with a local artist collective. The exhibit — titled “An Offering” — will be on display from July 17 through Sept. 9, Tops said. Click here to see the Memorial Water Wall and other changes inside the store. Reopening the store has been the subject of much debate, as many local residents depend on the grocery store but feel uneasy about walking through those doors again.
New York Attorney General Leticia James offered a few words at the reopening ceremony; “Today we reclaim this space.” #JeffersonStrong
The Mayor of Buffalo Byron Brown called the Jefferson Tops “Sacred Ground” and its reopening is evidence that Love beats Hate. He closed his brief remarks by quoting the Bible.
“Today is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice in it”.
Mayor Brown was instrumental in bringing Tops to the Eastside in 2003.
Source: WIVB.com
