Akwesasronon Open New Store in Massena Offering a Wide Selection of Products

By Isaac White

A new business owned by an Akwesasronon opened its doors on Tuesday, October 3rd, in Massena. The atmosphere was jubilant, the weather was splendid, and numerous guests were present to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of "Nice Butts", a tobacco shop co-owned by Lawrence Jackson and his wife, Sandra.

The shop's management is under the capable hands of Laura Lee Lazore, who shared her insights with Indian Time regarding her role and the inception of the new enterprise. Lazore conveyed her enthusiasm for the venture and the potential it holds in fostering enduring ties with the Massena community. She shed light on the journey leading up to the shop's establishment, mentioning that the idea had been floating around for some time. However, only three weeks ago, Jackson, Lazore, and a few others recognized the promise of launching a smoke shop in Massena. Emphasizing the town's receptiveness, Lazore stated, "We want to establish great relationships in Massena."

Adding to the celebratory mood of the grand opening, the attendees were treated to a musical delight. Local radio personality from 101.5 The Fox, Blind Andy, was present, serenading the crowd with classic rock and mingling with the attendees.

Commenting on his participation, Andy remarked, "It's an honor to be here at Nice Butts, a new business serving the Seaway Valley."

He wrapped up his interaction with Indian Time by playfully saying, "I look forward to Nice Butts kicking butt."

Sandra Jackson provided a sneak peek into the offerings of the tastefully arranged shop, mentioning, "We offer cigarettes, vapes, tobacco products of all kinds, and beer."

She added that visitors could always count on a free cup of coffee and the warmest of welcomes. Her husband, Lawrence Jackson, shared a light-hearted anecdote with Indian Time about the genesis of their business idea, saying it all started "on a napkin." He voiced his optimism for the future, noting the positive feedback from Massena's residents.

Offering his support, SRMT Sub-Chief Derrick King expressed his delight, "As a current resident in the Akwesasne Land Claim area, it brings me great pleasure to welcome a new Akwesasronon-owned business into my neighborhood. It instills a sense of pride and makes me feel at home. I eagerly anticipate revisiting to explore the wide array of convenience and smoke shop products."

Before concluding, Sandra Jackson added a memorable touch, emphasizing, "Nice Butts, WITH TWO T's," ensuring that the shop's catchy tagline lingers in the minds of the community.