T & F Farmers Pride Plans May 24 Reopening

When Tony DeLizzio's son graduates from Immaculata University this weekend, the owner of will have to do something foreign to him: hire a caterer.

After a woman the Roxborough deli and market April 23, the long-time Ridge Avenue business has kept closed. Since DeLizzio opened the shop 24 years ago, he got use to providing the food at family events. Operating a deli impacted every aspect of his life.

"For 24 years, I never had to go somewhere and buy milk, eggs. It's weird. I have to remember to go to the store now," he said.

The accident left no one seriously harmed, but greatly affected the business at 8101 Ridge Ave. In February, through in Roxborough. However the nature of that accident only took out the store's door and window. It reopened within days.

T & F Farmers Pride lost a key load-bearing wall. After the cleanup culminates, the store will lose about one month of business.

DeLizzio has hesitated in announcing a firm date that the shop will return. He doesn't want to make false promises.

"It's the most frustrating when it's out of your hands. There's nothing you can do," he said.

On Thursday, he said he anticipated a 9 a.m. reopening, May 24. That gives contractors time to wrap up the rebuilding effort, and city building and health inspectors the chance to review their work.

People have continually called, wishing the market well and inquiring to when their reopening will be. DeLizzio said the family appreciates the kind regards, but just wants to get back to business.

"That is a nice silver lining—to a certain extent," he said, adding the store lost all fresh items—salads, meats, and produce—due to the prolonged closure.

Because the shop was closed, DeLizzio was able to take off around Easter and Mother's Day. And this weekend, his family will celebrate the graduation.

And as for the catering?

"I went to . They do good stuff there," he said of the restaurant and caterer also known as PTG.