For 50 years James Perry has been a business staple within Pittsburgh’s communities. A true example of an entrepreneur, since the age of eight he knew depending on someone to support him or to dictate how much money he could make was not for him.
“I have always wanted to do for myself.” As a child Perry said his first experience at self-employment was selling magazines and newspapers, including the Pittsburgh Courier to entertainers at the Hurricane Club in the Hill District. His first week’s paycheck was $37. More than his uncle’s that worked as a chef on a full time basis.
In the past he has owned and operated a restaurant and bar in the former Ellis Hotel, as well as several stores in the Hill and Garfield neighborhoods. After operating on Blackadore and Frankstown Avenues for a while he later relocated to Homewood and Frankstown Avenues where he operated Perry’s Market for nearly 25 years. Recently he and his youngest son Antonovich opened Perry’s Honeydripper at 7006 Frankstown Ave.
At the age of 32, Antonovich said working in the family business all his life has been an exciting experience. “I have always looked at my Dad as a hero and inspiration,” he reflects. “I have worked in the stores since I was five and have plans to carry on the family legacy.”
With the same philosophy and attitude as his Dad, he points out that their goal for the Honeydipper is to provide quality products at fair prices to their customers. More than just a corner store, the Honeydipper sells groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables and hot cooked foods. Foods, take out only are inclusive of breakfast, lunch and dinner and delivery and catering services are available.
In the store early in the morning, Perry said he cooks all the food. “Cooking all my life, I have always enjoyed it,” he says adding that they sell the best fish sandwiches.
“Perry’s Honeydipper represents something different,” Perry described. Open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Perry said, “We want people to be able to come to a place in the community to get what they need, a place where prices are reasonable enough where they won’t get robbed.”
His goal is to install walk-in freezers to store fresh produce purchased from local farmers and sell at affordable prices.
“The community deserves the best and we are here at a time when they need us. We are a family oriented operation and it is important for young people to see businesses like ours,” Perry said mentioning the activities occurring in Ferguson, Mo. Concerned that there is a need for more Black-owned businesses as well as better Black representation in the police force, he said Blacks need to be working within their community. “But it is a two way street because Blacks have to hire other Blacks as well,” he pointed out. “Youth have to see people of color in positive roles.”
Perry and Antonovich said they are setting an example for potential entrepreneurs. “You can’t let anything stand in the way of what you want to do. All you need is a will to do. If you have will it is unlimited as to what you can do. Money is not even the issue,” said Perry. “My first businesses were started with little capital. All I did was put up a sign, sold items that I had and used that money to continuously replenish stock.”
Perry advises people considering starting a business to follow their desires. “When people tell you no you have to tell yourself yes and do something about it. You have to have the will. The only one to stop you is you.”
A man of faith, Perry says that he always depends on God. “I have lived a life of a king. He has blessed me and my family over and over and has guided me so smoothly. I am willing to follow him and give back 10 percent of my earnings and time.”
A graduate of the former Fifth Avenue High School and the experience as the first Black supervisor for the Hess Oil Corporation in the state of New York has added to the knowledge Perry utilizes to operate his businesses. Businesses he said he and his wife of 50 years who passed away this year raised 11 children, all which have degrees.
Appreciative of the positive response and support the store has been receiving from customers since opening in early November, Antonovich said he and the staff strive to treat the customer’s right. Customer service is important to us; we treat people how we want to be treated and look forward to servicing the community for a long time.”
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