Bellwood Coffee Honors Jovita Moore After Backlash

Bellwood Coffee has unveiled a new mural dedicated to the late WSB-TV news anchor Jovita Moore. This comes after the coffee company faced significant community pushback earlier this year for painting over an existing mural of Moore at its Grant Park location. The original artwork, created in 2021 by artist Tommy Bronx and commissioned by Atlanta United FC, was covered with dark gray paint and an advertisement for Bellwood Coffee.

In response to the viral backlash, Bellwood Coffee acknowledged its mistake and committed to commissioning a new mural. Company owner Charles Norman stated that they worked closely with Jovita Moore's family during the design process. The newly completed mural, again created by Tommy Bronx, now features Moore's likeness, incorporating her favorite roses and brighter colors as requested by her children. Bronx emphasized that public art belongs to the community and expressed his honor in celebrating Moore's life once more.

To further commemorate Moore, Bellwood Coffee has added a special drink to its menu called the 'JoMo,' an iced strawberry, vanilla matcha latte. The company has pledged to donate $2 from every JoMo sold through August to the National Brain Tumor Society. Moore's children, Shelby and Josh Griffith, attended the unveiling, with Shelby stating the mural represents Atlanta's collective memory and appreciation for her mother's life.