When Business Gets Tough: Why this Rochester-based Black Business is Triumphant
Every entrepreneur knows that setbacks are inevitable. Sometimes they come in the form of financial struggles, bad deals, or unforeseen challenges. But for Kenneth Rivers, owner of Hooked Fish Market, adversity came in the most heartbreaking way imaginable.
On August 16, 2024, a devastating crash outside his restaurant claimed the life of Lafayama “Lawfee” Chapman, a beloved friend and loyal customer. Lawfee had just picked up a slice of cake when tragedy struck, leaving the storefront shattered and the doors of Hooked Fish Market closed indefinitely.
But in the face of loss, Rivers chose resilience over retreat. He didn’t just rebuild his business—he doubled down on his mission to serve the community. Even with no revenue coming in, he found ways to give back, launching a fundraiser that raised over $2,000 to support the Chapman family, personally feeding those in need, and teaming up with local businesses for a back-to-school giveaway that put 200 backpacks in the hands of Rochester kids.
Now, nearly seven months later, Hooked Fish Market is back. On Friday, March 7, 2025, at 11:30 AM, the restaurant will officially reopen its doors at 333 Driving Park Avenue, stronger and more determined than ever. The grand re-opening will feature a special dedication—Rivers will read a personal letter, “Dear Lafayama,” followed by a balloon release in Lawfee’s memory. Local Black-owned businesses will stand alongside him, not as competitors, but as partners in progress, cutting the ribbon to mark a new chapter.
“Losing Lawfee changed everything,” said Rivers. “But as a community faced by insecurities, we can't just succumb to tragedy, we have to use it as fuel to keep pushing forward for our community. This restaurant isn’t just mine—it belongs to the neighborhood. And as long as I’m here, I’m going to keep showing up for my people.”
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