We at East Liberty Development, Inc. appreciate Jamie Wallace’s pioneering efforts (and delicious food) we have all enjoyed at Abay.

Not only is Jamie an excellent model of entrepreneurship at Abay, but he is also a current member of the Board of Directors at ELDI and at one point served as the secretary. We value his contributions to the Board as well as to the Board’s Business Committee.

Efforts like Jamie’s, to open Abay at a time when there were few restaurant options in East Liberty, allowed the community at large to see what was possible here. Not only did Abay survive, but it thrived.

Although we were unable to financially contribute in 2003, the success of Abay and other pioneers allowed us to secure resources in April of 2008 that have helped to expand restaurant options in East Liberty to what they are today. Jamie made strong contributions to the Business Committee, which stewards ELDI’s investment in the small business community in the neighborhood.

Thanks to Jamie, Heather and the entire staff of Abay for 10 years of delicious food! We’ll miss having you in East Liberty.