Black-Owned Business to Operate Birmingham’s A.G. Gaston Motel Coffee Shop  

birminghamal.gov  Alicia’s Coffee LLC, a Black-owned business founded by Naimah Alicia Elmore and Rashad Harrell, was selected to operate the coffee shop at the historic A.G. Gaston Motel. The business, which officially opened its doors at the Motel this week, was founded in 2020 to serve communities through organic, responsibly sourced coffee and acts of community service, according to the company. Its guiding principle, “Coffee is a connection,” reflects its commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and giving back to the community. “It is an honor to be downtown to help revitalize the community,” said Elmore. “We want to do great things in the neighborhood and in the community. Certain things you cannot talk about in church, certain things you cannot talk about in school, but you can inside of a coffee shop. It is really a healing place, a safe place for people of all ages and races.” Alicia’s Coffee is open from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. seven days a week. It offers three signature blends—Brazilian, Costa Rican, and Colombian—each known for its unique and organic flavors. The owners hosted a soft opening in mid-January and officially celebrated its grand opening on Tuesday, Feb. 25, with the support of the City...