GENESEO – A newly opened Main Street business has suffered extensive damage as a result of the fire that tore through 71 to 73 Main Street Wednesday afternoon, but its entrepreneur says that she will bounce back strong.
Though Alyssa Cope, Honey Girl’s Gourmet owner, said that she is saddened by the loss of her business as well as other icons like Kelly’s Saloon, she added that she will be up and running before long.
“Kelly’s and Grayce are institutions in themselves in Geneseo,” said Cope, 32. “It’s sad, and we’re all supporting each other. I’m not leaving. I just don’t know if I’ll be there right away.”
Cope added that her and other neighboring businesses on the block were damaged by smoke and water, including Touch of Grayce, a regionally renowned specialty store for the past 20 years. Fortunately, firefighters were able to contain the blaze to only one building.
“I’ve been told that there is extensive smoke and water damage, but but I just don’t know what to expect.”
Kelly’s Saloon, Honey Girl’s, and two overhead apartments were lost in the fire.
The back of Kelly’s. (Photo/Conrad Baker)