JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI | City With Soul

[dmaTN]

This "Jackson" section is just a Facebook page.

[vetteking]

Originally Posted by dmaTN

This "Jackson" section is just a Facebook page.

Why would you say that? Majority of my posts are about Jackson projects and community events. Nothing different from the Winston-Salem city thread

[Altoic]

Originally Posted by dmaTN

This "Jackson" section is just a Facebook page.

I don't think so and think it's pretty unfair to call it that. These posts are centered around the community and developments/misc developments. Of course not every post is going to be a multi-family building, because to be honest Jackson really doesn't have large developments right now, but at least they're related to Jackson.

I see Facebook more as subjective journalism, posting crazy politics, conspiracies, etc.

This page lists small developments and occasional news posts without much opinion attached, a far cry from Facebook.

[vetteking]

Originally Posted by Altoic

I don't think so and think it's pretty unfair to call it that. These posts are centered around the community and developments/misc developments. Of course not every post is going to be a multi-family building, because to be honest Jackson really doesn't have development right now, but at least they're related to Jackson.

I see Facebook more as subjective journalism, posting crazy politics, conspiracies, etc.

This page lists small developments and occasional news posts without much opinion attached, a far cry from Facebook.

Thank you. You get it

[vetteking]

Madison supervisors hire firm to design new Tax Collector Office in south part of County

The Madison County Board of Supervisors have hired Dean Architecture to design a building in south Madison County for either the tax collector or the tax assessor.

Make that re-hired.

During their Jan. 19, 2021 meeting, the supervisors acknowledged architectural plans for a new tax collector’s office that were drawn by Dean and Dean Associates. The renderings of the exterior showed a one-story building with drive-through lanes for tag renewal and tax collections. An interior layout showed more than 4,200 square feet of space with a 372-square-foot records room, a 475-square-foot lobby and three storage areas.

Since that time, the county administrator, tax collector and tax assessor have changed and the board of supervisors has a new member, Casey Brannon of District One.

Greg Higginbotham, the county administrator, said the county is in the early stages of planning a new building that would provide either the tax collector or tax assessor more space.

“We don’t have a site picked out,” he said. “We’re far away from having a shovel in the ground.”

The plan is for either the tax collector or the tax assessor to move into the new building and the one that doesn’t move would occupy all of the space in what is currently the tax assessor’s office at 171 Cobblestone Drive in Madison, he said.

“We need more room for records, more storage and more space for the staff” he said. “Right now, the tax assessor’s office in that old bank building has some folks working two to an office.”

The number of taxpayers has increased, and that’s one reason additional office space is needed, he said. “Madison County has seen an unbelievable amount of growth and that means more taxpayers,” he said.

A site will dictate some details about the project, Higginbotham said. For example, the tax collector’s office would need more parking and also a drive-through lane for taxpayers to use compared to the tax assessor’s office, which could be built on a smaller parcel of land because it wouldn’t have those requirements.

One thing is for certain, Higginbotham said, and that’s drive-through lanes so that taxpayers can pay for license plates or pay their taxes without having to get out of their vehicles.

The current tax assessor’s office has drive-through lanes and those have proven popular, he said. “It works so well we’re duplicating it at our new office Canton,” he said.
https://www.northsidesun.com/madison...&e_sort_order=

[vetteking]

Luxury apartment expansion completed at The Quarter

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Officials with StateStreet Group, LLC (SSG), announced the grand opening of its latest residential project at The Quarter on Lakeland Drive in Jackson.

SSG completed the conversion of an existing office building at the location into 20 new luxury apartments known as “The Quarter Lofts.”

The Quarter is a mixed-use development comprised of retail, restaurant and residential space.

“StateStreet Group is excited to introduce The Quarter Lofts to our market,” said Justin Peterson, SSG President. “This project represents our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional living spaces in the Jackson area that combine luxury, comfort and convenience.”

“Our residents have access to features including a state-of-the-art fitness center, a coffee bar and sparkling water stations, a pet park and grooming station and a resort-style pool,” said Danielle Boren, SSG Property Manager for The Quarter.

SSG plans to add other amenities going forward, with future projects to include a pickleball court and a landscaped water feature with a pedestrian boardwalk.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...t-the-quarter/

This metro Whataburger will be like none other. See where it will be and how it is different

A new Whataburger is coming to the area, and it will be different than any other.

Madison developer Bridgforth Rutledge confirmed this week that Whataburger is going to move into the building previously occupied by Back Yard Burger off Grandview Boulevard.

As with anything else in Madison, Whataburger will be subject to how Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler wants things to look. In this case, Hawkins Butler doesn't want Whataburger to have its iconic orange sign.

"It will be the only Whataburger in the United States that is not orange," Hawkins Butler said.

Rutledge said it will have an all-white "Whataburger" sign out front and all of the outdoor signage will be all white. That is in line with many of the businesses already in place in the same area. It is notable that just around the corner from where Whataburger will be located, Hobby Lobby has a large orange sign on top of its big-box store.

The new Whataburger won't quite be the only one without orange in the U.S., however. There is at least one other in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, that has a white sign against a red, brick building. However, the Madison location will definitely be one of the few without orange signage.

Whataburger is the Texas-based fast-food chain famous for its made-to-order burgers and iconic orange-and-white-striped roofs.

This will be the 13th Whataburger in Mississippi with locations already in Jackson, Flowood, Brandon, Richland and Ridgeland in the area.

Rutledge is the owner of both former Back Yard Burger locations in Madison and Flowood. Both locations closed early in 2023. He hopes the Flowood location will have a new tenant in the near future as well.

"I sold the Back Yard Burgers business to a private equity firm in 2018, and I kept the real estate for a number of locations, including the locations in Madison and Flowood," Rutledge said. "In my opinion, the new owner of the business made a number of poor business decisions that eventually resulted in the closure of significant number of their stores both inside and outside of Mississippi. Ultimately, I reached an agreement with them to get them out of the Flowood and Madison locations so I could lease or sell them to different users."

Remodeling of the former Back Yard Burger building is expected to begin in the next couple of weeks with a completion day expected in early 2025.

Rutledge could not say exactly how many people will be employed by the new restaurant. However, other Whataburger openings in recent years have had announcements of as many as 150 full and part-time jobs associated with them.

It is the second recent announcement for Rutledge of a new opening in Madison on property he owns and develops as Jackson native Will Puckett is opening a Thai restaurant in a Rutledge-opened building on Madison Avenue in Madison after two years of success with Tuk Tuk Boom in Jackson.

The first Tuk Tuk Boom location in Highland Village has been a roaring success.

While the Madison location will be similar, it will be larger near Madison Marketplace at 961 Madison Avenue.

Opening is still a while away as construction of a free standing building is expected to begin by the end of December. Puckett said he hopes to be open to the first guest by the Fall of 2024.
https://www.clarionledger.com/story/...i/71958107007/

Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership welcomes Urban Air Adventure Park

Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership
2d
·
Congratulations to Urban Air Adventure Park on the location of your new indoor attractions in the Jackson area. With new adventures behind every corner, Urban Air is the ultimate indoor playground for your entire family. Urban Air is located at 6370 Ridgewood Court Drive, Jackson. The Greater Jackson Chamber appreciates your investment in our chamber and community! We wish you many years of great success!
https://www.facebook.com/GreaterJack...SymJCZKpvQoEwl

7 Brew to open new location in Clinton
• Video Link

CLINTON, Miss (WJTV) – 7 Brew will open another location in the Jackson-metro area.

The new location will be at 107 U.S. 80 in Clinton. The grand opening will be held on Tuesday, February 27 at 10:30 a.m.

At the ribbon-cutting, the stand will present a $2,000 donation to representatives from Children’s of Mississippi, the state’s only children’s hospital. 7 Brew Flowood and Pearl, both opened last fall, also donated to the organization.

7 Brew’s next step will be to host a Swag Day on March 2, where every customer who purchases a large drink will get a free 7 Brew t-shirt.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...on-in-clinton/

Stamps Super Burgers named one of best restaurants in US
• Video Link

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A local Jackson restaurant recently received national recognition by USA Today.

The restaurant started back in the 1980s when Phil Stamps, Sr., began selling burgers. More than three decades later, Stamps Super Burgers still proudly serves West Jackson and the surrounding communities.

“You know, as it pertains to being one of the older restaurants here, I think it really set the foundation for economic growth and development. Not only in Washington Addition, but also in the Jackson community, in Jackson surrounding areas,” said Phil Stamps, Jr., the operations manager of Stamps Super Burgers.

The restaurant is widely known for its rich history, but most importantly, their quality of customer service and food.

“Always, always friendly. It always feels like you walk in there, too, to your favorite auntie is something making the music in the background,” said Grace Black, a customer.

“We pride ourselves on having one of the best burgers around. All of our products are produced fresh every single day. And so, we’re talking of fresh ground beef, fresh turkey, fresh vegetables that we treat every single day here. Burgers made fresh to order,” said Stamps.

Along with previous accolades, Stamps Super Burgers was recently named one of the best Restaurants of the Year by USA Today. Stamps said it’s a proud honor.

In the future, Stamps said he hopes to establish a restaurant chain in the United States.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...nited%20States.

[vetteking]

Retail developer ‘in discussions’ with national chains

NATCHEZ —  Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx, Pet Smart, Five Below. These are some of the retailers who could be coming to Natchez as part of a prospective $40 million development. Doug Horne, president of Horne Properties, said he said he is excited about the prospects of developing a retail shopping complex in Natchez. Horne has been in business for 42 years and has completed more than 140 commercial development projects in more than 21 states.

“As I told the mayor, we can’t reveal who the tenants will be because we don’t have the deals made yet, but we are in discussions with Hobby Lobby, TJ Max and Home Goods, PetsSmart and Five Below,” he said. Horne also said his company has begun conversations with representatives of grocery retailer Aldi, as well. “We are talking with Aldi. They would really like to be in Vicksburg and Natchez, but I don’t know if Aldi would go to Natchez without going to Vicksburg also,” he said.

The city’s board of aldermen recently granted Horne Properties a one-year option on the purchase of 29.9 acres of city-owned property next to Walmart near the intersection of D’Evereux and Seargent S. Prentiss drives. At the time, Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said the potential retail develop could eventually lead to 300 jobs. “It will be the most substantial retail development not only in Natchez but also Southwest Mississippi in several decades,” Gibson said. Lots of work must take place before the retail complex becomes a reality.

“It’s going to take a while. We’ve got to get access worked out with MDOT on D’Evereux and Seargent Prentiss. We need to come in as the same access point that Walmart has. We’ve got to work with MDOT on both streets and we’ve got to get all of the deal together,” Horne said. The option granted to Horne property was for one year. “We have the financing lined up. The problem right now with these tenants is the cost per square foot. We have to have a better rent deal for them. The cost of construction per square foot has gone up significantly,” he said. Horne, president of Horne Properties, is no stranger to Natchez. Horne, who lives in a small community near Knoxville, Tennessee, where his company is based, once owned the historic home Richland. He and his wife, Brenda, own Springfield Plantation, the historic home in Church Hill. “Springfield is where Andrew Jackson was married to Rachel Donelson in 1791,” Horne said. “My wife and I renovated the home after we purchased it and we are having the Horne Family Reunion there in July. The house was in pretty bad shape when we bought it.”

https://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2024...tional-chains/

Baptist Memorial to open 6 new urgent care centers in Mississippi

As the state continues to face a crisis when it comes to healthcare access, Baptist Memorial has announced it’s opening six new urgent care centers across Mississippi.


The following locations will be open seven days a week, treating non-life threatening injuries and illnesses:

Batesville (555 Highway 6 East)
Columbus (1503 Highway 45 North)
Horn Lake (3040 Goodman Road West)
Starkville (500 Russell Street, Suite 3)
West Point (7474 Highway 45 Alternative North)
Tupelo (1154 Cross Creek Drive)
The regional announcement from Baptist also includes new urgent care centers in Bartlett, Tenn., Collierville, Tenn., Jackson, Tenn., and Wynne, Ark.
https://www.supertalk.fm/baptist-mem...n-mississippi/

Meridian Children’s Museum partners with Cater’s Market
• Video Link

MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) - Cater’s Market held the grand opening for its brand new location Tuesday. The Meridian Children’s Museum partnered with the restaurant to open Cater’s at the Museum, located right next to the museum on 22nd Avenue South.

Field trip groups will be able to easily walk over to Cater’s Market to enjoy a snack or meal. Owner, Jamie Cater, said she has great expectations for this expansion and partnership and is excited about the future.

“There will be an option for the field trips that come. We will be able to do box lunches, whether they want a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or a turkey sandwich,” said Cater. “We’re going to be here right on campus to be able to provide that service for them. We just are amazed at what traffic and tourism that comes in with the Children’s Museum.”

Cater’s at the Museum offers several dining options, but the most popular dish is the pecan chicken salad.
https://www.wtok.com/2024/02/20/meri...caters-market/

Aging Jackson airport receives an $8 million federal grant to upgrade equipment

The Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport has received $8 million in federal grant funds as part of the U.S. Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The funds will be used to upgrade equipment at the airport, according to L'Sherie Dean, the airport authority's director of communications, marketing and public relations.

"The facility is 60-years-old, so this will allow us to enhance our elevators, escalators, HVAC, all of those different units that may need upgrades for years to come," Dean said in a phone interview. "We're the number one airport in the state of Mississippi, we're servicing up to 1.3 million passengers annually now, so in order to better serve our customers we want to give a high-quality experience by upgrading essential equipment."

The announcement was made by the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority in a press release Friday afternoon.

The airport authority has been lobbying in Washington D.C. for these funds, Dean said, but there is no date as to when the airport will receive the funds, nor when construction will begin on the upgrades.

The airport authority recently reported passenger numbers for 2023 at levels "not seen in adecade and a half." As of Dec. 31, the airport saw a 5.1% increase in travelers compared to 2022, and continues to be the busiest airport in the state of Mississippi, carrying close to six of every 10 passengers boarding at the state's seven commercial airports.

In the press release, the airport's Chief Executive Officer, Rosa Beckett, said the airport authority will continue to work closely with the federal government and Mississippi leaders to plan and secure funds for a “next generation airport.” The airport currently generates nearly $2 billion annually to the state.

Beckett also thanked "the Biden-Harris administration and members of the Mississippi Congressional delegation" for help securing the grant. She also thanked the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration.

https://www.clarionledger.com/story/...t/72633279007/

Lamar County School District looks into possible bond to build three new schools

Back in 2005, voters in the Lamar County School District approved the passage of a bond that allowed the construction of several new elementary schools and performing arts spaces to accommodate continued growth of the district and to update its existing facilities.

District officials are now asking residents to do much of the same, with a continuance of that bond – which pays off next year – to build a new Sumrall High School, Oak Grove Middle School and Purvis High School.

“It’s just the age of those three facilities; they’re getting older,” district superintendent Steven Hampton said. “Sumrall and Purvis high schools were built in the ‘60s, … and then there’s the potential growth that we’re looking at in our district as well, to be able to manage the growth that we see in our district.”

If the bond does pass and the new campuses are built, that measure would leave district officials with several options on what to do with the old buildings.

“In Sumrall, we have some options where we can take the seventh and eighth graders that are at Sumrall Middle now, and move them into some of the classrooms or spaces that are in Sumrall High School now,” Hampton said. “We could bring maybe fifth grade over from the elementary, and have five and six (grades) at the current middle school, and then have seven and eight (grades) at the current high school.

“We could do something similar to that in Purvis as well, so those are some spaces that, if the the bond passes, we start making those plans.”

All three buildings would be designed in the same fashion, and would be built on 16th Section land.

The bond referendum of 2005 increased the school district’s millage – or taxes of property owners in the district – by 9.35 mills.

One mill is equal to one-tenth of a cent. To calculate property tax, divide the millage by 1,000 and multiply it by the property’s assessed taxable value.

In the case of the 2005 referendum, the owner of a $100,000 home paid an additional $935 per year in property taxes. That measure generated $43 million for the school district to construct the aforementioned facilities.

However, Lamar County School District officials are working to prevent any millage increase with the proposed bond measure.

“That’s what we’re looking at, at this point,” Hampton said.

To help spread information about the proposed bond and gather information from residents about the measure, district officials are holding community meetings at various schools throughout the district. The first meeting was held February 19 at the Sumrall High School Library, with the next meeting to be held at 5:30 p.m. February 20 at the Oak Grove Middle School auditorium.

The third and final meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. February 22 at the Lumberton High School library.

“After we have these meetings, we’ll have another work session for our school board, possibly next week,” Hampton said. “Then we have a board meeting on March 4, where if everything seems favorable, then the board will vote on passing the resolution for a referendum on the bond.”

At that point, the issue would go to an election, where residents of the school district would be able to vote whether to pass the measure.
https://www.hubcityspokes.com/local-...&e_sort_order=

Deal Reached To Sell Leflore Christian

A contract has been signed for the purchase of Leflore Christian School on Sgt. John PIttman Drive. Supporters acted quickly to secure the school after learning the property had been listed for sale. (By Susan Montgomery, Copyright 2024 Emmerich Newspapers, Inc.)

The atmosphere at a fundraising gala for Leflore Christian School Thursday night likely will be celebratory. Leflore Christian only weeks ago faced some bad news. Avalon Holdings LLC — created by the founder of the former North New Summit School, Nancy New — had listed the campus for sale. The company was recently dissolved, according to documents filed with the Secrectary of State’s ...
https://www.gwcommonwealth.com/deal-..._term_id=17634

Pass Christian residents against east harbor green space proposals
• Video Link

PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) - On Tuesday, at Pass Christian City Hall, you will see residents in bright green t-shirts that read, “GREEN SPACE, NOT RETAIL SPACE.”

These shirts represent their opinion on recent proposals submitted to the city for the use of the green space at the east harbor.

“We were very fortunate to get a grant from the state under the Gulf Coast Restoration Plan,” Pass Christian Mayor Jimmy Rafferty said. “We got a million and a half dollars.”

Two proposals will be discussed at Tuesday’s meeting. The “Marlins Pass Christian Harbor” proposal will advocate for a large dining, shopping, and entertainment area.

The second proposal, “Pass Christian Harbor Event Center” would build a large, ship-looking event center.

Residents are against both of these proposals.

“That could possibly be modified, but what they proposed now is out of scale and it’s really not necessary,” resident Michael Christovich said. Christovich argues these proposals don’t necessarily fit with the Pass’ old charm.

“It’s change that we don’t need at this point,” he said. “This community has been here for over 300 years. It’s got great historic nature and we don’t really need a project of this magnitude at this site.”

Not only are current residents of the Pass saying “no”, but so are former residents. Eric Aschaffenburg said it’s not just about maintaining the city’s character, but control as well.

“Either of these proposals are leased for up to 25 years without any control over what happens here,” Aschaffenburg said. “You can’t draw a lease up that covers all the bases.”

Mayor Rafferty said that he believes both developers understand that Pass Christian residents don’t want something “too over the top”.

“I think there’s a groundswell of antipathy to this site being used for what they’re proposing,” Christovich said. “I know there is. I haven’t met anyone that thinks it’s a good idea.”

Mayor Rafferty is aware of opposing comments by citizens but said, “I think it’s going to add to what we have already in Pass Christian. For example, the pavilion will allow us to have city events there - Blessing the Fleet, Cruisin’ the Coast.” Rafferty added, “Whereas the other rendition, the one that has the additional restaurants, additional gift shops, additional playgrounds for kids and so forth, that’ll be a really great addition to our harbor. Which is one of the biggest attractions that we have here in Pass Christian.”

Pass residents, the city’s Board of Aldermen, and Mayor Rafferty will meet at Pass Christian City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 20 at 6 p.m.

Rafferty said the meeting is for public comment and that no official vote on the proposals will be taken during the meeting.
https://www.wlox.com/2024/02/19/pass...ace-proposals/

[vetteking]

Topgolf to break ground in Mississippi on Monday

RIDGLELAND, Miss. (WJTV) – Topgolf will hold an official groundbreaking ceremony for its first venue in Mississippi.

The groundbreaking will be held on Monday, February 26, 2024. Topgolf will be located off of Interstate 55 in Ridgeland near the Renaissance at Colony Park.

The venue is expected to open by the end of 2024.

“I am thrilled to welcome Topgolf to Ridgeland and honored they have chosen our city as the first location in Mississippi. This development isn’t just about economic growth; it’s a true destination point for friends and families to come together,” said Ridgeland Mayor Gene McGee.

“Officially breaking ground in Mississippi brings much anticipation and excitement at Topgolf, and we’re thrilled to bring our style of play to the state. We’re proud to be part of the growth in the Ridgeland region and thank the Mayor’s office for their partnership as we’ve been working to bring this project to life,” said Topgolf Chief Development Officer Chris Callaway.

Topgolf’s fist Mississippi venue will have 60 outdoor climate-controlled hitting bays spanning two levels. Once open, the venue will employ about 200 people.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...ppi-on-monday/

Eudora Welty Library moves out, goes into storage
• Video Link

JACKSON, Miss. —
The Eudora Welty Library packed up and moved out after 38 years of service to the Jackson community.

The library board said they've been preparing for Wednesday's move for several weeks and will be moving things into storage for the meantime.

"It has been a long time coming," said Floyd Council, executive director of the Jackson Hinds Library System. "It is the start of many great things for the city of Jackson, and I think that the citizens should actually be really happy that we're making the first step."

A storm damaged the library's roof in 2013, causing flooding throughout the building, which closed in 2017.

The Administrative Board of Trustees approved use of storage at the Jackson Medical Mall located on Woodrow Wilson Avenue to store the library's collection of books, art, furniture, equipment, and fixtures. They will be preserved and stored for use in a future downtown library.

The building is scheduled for spring demolition to make way for a new green park space.

The library board said the historic move comes on the brink of the launch of a new 5-year strategic planning process in March.

The board said they are still planning to open a temporary downtown library location that will provide books, computers, and services to the public.
https://www.wapt.com/article/eudora-...orage/46879063

A Mississippi university tries again to drop 'Women' from its name

Leaders of Mississippi University for Women made a new proposal Tuesday to shed the school's gender-specific name in a way they hope will be accepted by alumni who fondly call their alma mater "The W."

The public institution would become Wynbridge State University of Mississippi and would still market itself as "The W," if legislators approve the plan. The name change would happen July 1.

It's the second time this year that MUW leaders have rolled out an idea for renaming the university in Columbus. MUW has also enrolled men since 1982, and about about 22% of the current 2,230 students are male.

But university leaders say having "women" in the name complicates the recruiting process.

A backlash by alumni caused the university to backtrack from a proposed new name that was unveiled in January, Mississippi Brightwell University.

"We are grateful to our alumni and friends of the university for reminding us that our identity as 'The W' has both an enduring legacy and the flexibility to carry our institution into the future," the university's president, Nora Miller, said in a news release Tuesday. "By enshrining our commitment to 'The W' in the law, we promise our community that graduates past, present and future will remain united."

In 2022, Miller announced a university a task force to examine a name change, months after the university's Deans Council sent her a letter saying the current name presents "challenges."

Amanda Clay Powers, the university's dean of library services and co-chair of the naming task force, said Tuesday that Wynbridge "creatively pairs the Old English word for 'W,' using it as a 'bridge' that connects past, present and future W graduates."

"With our commitment to keeping 'The W,' we feel this is the perfect name for the university that looks back at our illustrious past as the first publicly supported university for women, keeping our tradition of looking forward into the future," Powers said in the university's news release.

Previous attempts to remove "women" from the name, including the most recent one in 2009, have brought strong backlash from alumni.

The president of MUW in 2009, Claudia Limbert, proposed changing the name to Reneau University to honor Sallie Reneau, who wrote to the Mississippi governor in the mid-19th century to propose a public college for women. That renaming effort fizzled amid opposition from outspoken graduates.

The school was chartered in 1884 as Industrial Institute and College and was on the campus of an existing private school, Columbus Female Institute. The original mission of the college was to provide higher education and vocational training for women.

In 1920, the name changed to Mississippi State College for Women, and in 1974 it became Mississippi University for Women.
https://www.djournal.com/mbj/a-missi...977944e12.html

More coverage on Mississippi University for Women name change
• Video Link

[vetteking]

Rankin County Chamber of Commerce welcomes Merit Health Heart Cardiology Clinic to Flowood

Rankin County Chamber
Yesterday at 9:55 AM ·
We enjoyed attending the Ribbon Cutting for the launch of Merit Health's comprehensive heart and vascular services yesterday. 💚🫀
Merit Health's dedicated healthcare professionals and the expansion of their cardiac services will allow heart and vascular patients to get faster and better care right in the heart of Rankin County. We are excited to see the exceptional care Merit Health Heart will provide to our community.
📍: 1030 River Oaks Dr., Flowood, MS 39232
📞: (601) 932-1030
https://www.facebook.com/RankinCount...fPSBLu4UMBJwVl

Madison the City welcomes Beyond Integrative Counseling and Consulting

Madison the City
7h ·
We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Beyond Integrative Counseling and Consulting! Dr. Chancey Fort and her compassionate team is here to guide you on your journey through mental health wellbeing. Please visit Beyond Integrative at 105 Executive Drive Ste. A and discover a path to peace and healing.
Welcome to Madison the City!
https://www.facebook.com/madisonthec...Tvqf41JoxTZxBl

Empty lot could make Old City Hall property more marketable

A paved parking lot, a concrete base for a sign, a flagpole, light poles, trees, shrubs plus a vacant foundation remain on the property along U.S. Highway 51 that the former Ridgeland City Hall once occupied.

Signs that advertise “Building and Land for Sale” are still there, despite the structure being torn down.

There’s a clear view of the site now that the demolition of the former city hall and Ridgeland Plaza shopping center, which faced Lake Harbour Drive and was located behind the former city hall, is complete.

So is it good or bad to no longer have a building on the site?

Having a clean slate could make the property, which the city of Ridgeland plans to sell, more attractive to buyers.

“Someone could envision something new there,” said Nancy Lane, owner of Lane-Harkins Commercial Real Estate.

Richard Ridgway, senior vice president at CBRE, a commercial real estate services and investment firm, agreed.

Sometimes having a building on a piece of property can restrict potential buyers because some find it tough to see past what’s there and imagine something new, he said.

A plus for the site, which is about six acres, is its location at two busy intersections, Lane said. Between 20,000 and 29,000 drivers pass through the intersection of Highway 51 and Lake Harbour Drive daily, according to 2022 data from the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Highway 51 carries drivers north to Madison and Lake Harbour Drive brings drivers from Rankin County into Ridgeland.

Property across Highway 51 from the former city hall is being developed as a second location of Two Gun Tactical, a shooting range in Flowood. “I think they must have chosen it because of the location,” Lane said.

Also positive is the extension of Lake Harbour Drive, which connects to Highland Colony Parkway and provides easy access to Costco, several restaurants and Renaissance at Colony Park.

If the former city hall remained, it might have been repurposed as a medical office building, Ridgway said, but now the empty site is perfect for a small grocery built from the ground up. “For people going home to Madison (on Highway 51), it’s on the right-hand side of the road,” he said.

The site is large enough for a small grocery that would be easy to get in and out, Lane said.

Even though retailers have scaled back plans for expansion because of covid and uncertainty about the economy, that’s not to say all of them have, Ridgway said.

“Something cool will be built there,” he said.

The demolition of the former city hall resulted from a blunder when a crew responsible for tearing down the shopping center mistakenly took out a chunk of the wrong building, the former city hall, on Jan. 15.

Ridgeland Mayor Gene McGee said by email that he could not answer discussions about the city hall demolition because those decisions have been made in executive session or with the city’s attorney.

“We simply are not in a position to discuss while this is an ongoing legal matter,” he wrote in an email.

The Ridgeland Board of Aldermen authorized “City Attorney John Scanlon to make a demand to tear down the remaining old City Hall building while meeting the Department of Environmental Quality standards, and request a monetary settlement for the last appraised value of the building, being $1.5 million,” according to the minutes of an executive session that was part of the Jan.17 board meeting.

A demolition crew using two excavators began tearing down Rdgeland Plaza shopping center, as planned, on Jan. 15, but a mistake occurred.

The crew took out a big a chunk of the former city hall at 304 U.S. Highway 51 before realizing it was in the wrong location.

Kim Cooper, director of public relations for the city of Ridgeland, acknowledged the unfortunate occurrence.

“There was an error the demolition contractor made yesterday but per the mayor, it’s in the hands of legal counsel,” she said on Jan. 16.

The city purchased the shopping center for $1 million last year from Rainbow Development Corp. and assisted the tenants, which included a liquor store, laundromat, Tower Loan and a title loan group, with relocating.

The shopping center demolition ties in with the city’s plans to improve Lake Harbour Drive so that traffic does not back up when drivers on Lake Harbour Drive turn onto southbound Highway 51.

Last year, the mayor and Ridgeland Board of Aldermen entered into an agreement with Baker Engineering to design the intersection improvements at a cost of $140,000.

The total cost of the project is $2.9 million, which is funded in part by a grant from the Central Mississippi Planning and Development District through the Metropolitan Planning.

The former city hall, which once held a blueprint company and was retrofitted to meet the city’s needs, was used from 1987 until the current one was built.

The building, which was declared surplus property in 2019 in advance of the city’s move into a new city hall built from the ground up, had been for sale.

The current Ridgeland city hall, located at School Street and U.S. Highway 51, was completed in 2020. The $15 million, 32,000-square-foot building houses various departments of city government that include the mayor, community development, public works, parks and recreation, information technology and traffic control. It also includes a two-story entrance lobby, board room, separate space for collecting water/sewer bills, computer networking for the city and a city history room.

In 2020, the city received one bid for the former city hall, but it was lower than expected and included conditions about nearby Purple Creek.
https://www.northsidesun.com/empty-l...?e_term_id=120

New Home: After 70 years St. Richard Catholic School finds new home

A banner in front of Meadowbrook Church of Christ announces future plans for St. Richard Catholic School

A banner in front of Meadowbrook Church of Christ proclaims: Future Home of Saint Richard Catholic School.

The school plans to start the 2024-2025 academic year at its current location and then move to its new campus in January 2025.

With a loan from Catholic Diocese of Jackson, the school purchased Meadowbrook Church of Christ, which is located at 4261 I-55 North and includes three buildings, for $2.5 million last month, said Father Joe Tonos, pastor at St. Richard Catholic Church.

Plans call for Meadowbrook Church of Christ to use the sanctuary through May and for Meadowbrook Preschool to remain there through May.

The move will put St. Richard Catholic School, which has an enrollment of about 200 students in K3 through sixth grade, in a location that is more visible than its current one on Holly Drive next to St. Richard Catholic Church.

“We’re hoping with better exposure, better visibility and being in a prominent part of town, we can bring folks back,” Tonos said. “That side of Fondren has more going for it.”

Enrollment at St. Richard, one of two Catholic elementary schools in the city, has dropped as families have moved to Madison and chosen to send students to public school, Tonos said. St. Anthony Catholic School at 1585 Mannsdale Road in Madison is also another option.

Tonos wrote in an email distributed earlier this year to let the 1,400 members of the parish and others on the distribution list know about the possibility of the purchase:

“The drive into school down Holly (Drive) and off of Office Park Drive has been a non-starter for parents. The proximity to the low-income apartments and exposure to dangers that have been present in the apartments, gas stations and surrounding areas have also made parents decide to move their children to another school.”

The move will put the school just a few blocks south of Banner Hall, at the backdoor of the gated, nine-story Barrington condominium building and near St. Andrew’s Episcopal School on Old Canton Road.

Patrick Crews of Jackson, whose three children attend St. Richard, said he’s looking forward to the ease of getting to the new location, the new facilities, “all the bells and whistles, all good things and, as visibility and awareness of the school continues to increase, more good things.”

St. Richard Catholic School plans to use the two-story education building that contains an elevator for classroom space and to repurpose the family life center as additional classroom space and for physical education use and as cafeteria, starting in January 2025, provided all goes as planned.

The school will use the sanctuary that can accommodate about 650 people and includes a “cry room” where people take babies or small children to avoid disturbing others during a worship service for its Wednesday morning Mass and as an auditorium when there are speakers and presentations.

The Meadowbrook Church of Christ property has an outdoor playground with artificial turf that includes playground equipment. Students will also be able to use Barrington Park, a green space, Tonos said.

Some renovations will be necessary to make the education building function for the school, said Tonos, who said the property has been well maintained. An estimate of the cost of renovations is being put together, he said.

Amy Neel Boteler of Jackson, the mother of two students at St. Richard as well as two sons who attended St. Richard and are now at St. Joseph Catholic School, said she’s pleased the move will mean newer, more modern facilities.

“I’m excited because I’ve been involved with the new aesthetics, picking out furniture and the floor plan,” she said. “My husband and I are contractors.”

The new location will be more up-to-date technology-wise, she said, naming standing and rising desks as a possible feature in classrooms. “We’re excited about upping the ante, so the school appeals not just to the current community base but beyond,” she said.

Another plus for the new location is the 190-slot parking lot and room to expand, which isn’t possible at its current location, Tonos said.

Students travel from across the metro area to St. Richard, which is known for its family atmosphere where “families feel connected,” said Russ Nelson, interim principal at the school, said

He credits Tonos with seeing the need for the move and what a new location could mean for the school’s future. “Father (Tonos) said, ‘Here is a huge opportunity for the school,” he said.

A capital campaign is expected to get under way soon, Nelson said, with naming opportunities available.

Boteler, who grew up in Jackson and renovates houses with her husband in northeast Jackson, said the new location means an investment in Jackson.

“I want to see the area thrive,” she said. “We love Jackson and want it to be super successful.”

Crews believes in the move but is a bit conflicted and nostalgic about the current location since he attended the starting in 1992 in kindergarten with beloved teacher Marie Lovitt until he finished sixth grade and then went to St. Joseph Catholic School.

“That’s mainly due to a personal connection with the current campus, having walked through these halls 30 years ago, having met my wife here, the memories of childhood friends that I still see weekly, teachers and staff that impacted my life and that have come before, but hey, it’s just a building I suppose,” he said. “At the end of the day it’s about the people, and it’s always been about the people that have chosen to send their most precious gifts to St Richard School and the community it’s cultivated.”

Crews said he expects parents who may not have a strong connection to the school and the parish and who may be considering other schools will after the move to the new location say, “Hey, look at St Richard, it’s safer now, it’s fresher now, it’s new” or “Have you heard about all the positive things happening at St Richard?”

Plans are to repurpose the current St. Richard Catholic School building for the St. Richard Catholic Church parish, Tonos said.

The parish has about 1,400 families and could use the space for meeting rooms for adults and dedicated space for its youth group and other organizations such as the Knights of Columbus, he said. The Jackson diocese, which has outgrown its space at 237 E. Amite St., could perhaps use some of the space he said.

Founded in 1953 by the Sisters of Mercy, the current location of the St. Richard was expected to need a new heating and cooling system and additional major repairs in the next five to 10 years, Tonos said, giving those as additional reasons for the move.

Crews believes the school is “riding a wave of positive momentum” that will set the groundwork for the next 15 to 20 years.

“Parents are buying in, the staff and teachers are buying in, our parish is buying in, we’re all in this together,” he said. “We need institutions like St. Richard to succeed and thrive, they’re making a choice to be in Jackson just as the Sisters of Mercy did in 1870 when they founded St Joe on Amite Street.”
https://www.northsidesun.com/local-c...&e_sort_order=

[vetteking]

Here’s what you need to know about JXN Restaurant Week

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Leaders with the City of Jackson and Visit Jackson announced JXN Restaurant Week will take place from Saturday, February 24 to Friday, March 1.

“The City of Jackson is already well known for its diverse culinary options and expertise as part of the ‘deep-fried south.’ This celebration is a great way to contribute to these local businesses and the economy at large, and we are grateful for events like these that spur additional commerce in our great city,” said Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba.










This weeklong extravaganza features curated events, promotions, and community engagement. Each day, a new theme will lead you to dine with your favorite eateries or help you find new spots to frequent.

The Cathead Cocktail Crawl on Saturday February 24 will take place in Fondren from 7:00 p.m. to midnight. Participants can grab a passport from one of the eight participating restaurants to collect four stamps win a prize when they visit the City With Soul booth at Highball Lanes.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...staurant-week/

LEARN MORE HERE: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/ja...staurant-week/

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State health department plans to revoke license of Natchez cannabis testing lab

JACKSON– The Mississippi State Department of Health, plans to revoke the license of a Natchez-based medical cannabis testing facility. MSDH announced its intent through the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program (MMCP)  to revoke the license of Rapid Analytics, LLC. This decision follows an investigation conducted between Dec. 21, 2023, and Feb. 9, 2024, revealing significant deviations from regulatory standards and approved procedures, according to a statement from MSDH. “Medical cannabis testing is critical to ensuring product safety for patients, and Rapid Analytics’ disregard for regulatory compliance poses a threat to public health and welfare. As such, MSDH has determined to revoke the establishment’s license effective March 13, 2024,” an MSDH news release stated Thursday.

Rapid Analytics, LLC has the right to appeal MSDH’s decision within 20 days. Failure to appeal will result in the revocation of the license, the news release said. Earlier this year, lab owner Mamie Henry said her company filed an appeal Jan. 5 with MSDH of its decision to shutter the Natchez cannabis testing laboratory. “We are waiting to get a hearing date,” she said. She said her company has also filed for a protective order here in Adams County to protect the samples of the products it has tested. The MSDH questioned where products tested by the company were properly tested for pesticides.

“We have the samples in our vault. Initially, we were open to the department of health having our samples and testing those,” Henry said. “When they originally told us we were dealing with a public health issue, we were willing to provide them. We no longer have faith in this investigation, therefore we have had to protect our samples.” On Dec. 21, 2023, MSDH placed an administrative hold on all cannabis products that had been tested by Rapid Analytics of Natchez. Dispensaries whose products were tested by Rapid Analytics were not allowed to sell those products until they were retested.

https://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2024...s-testing-lab/

More coverage about the news
• Video Link

[vetteking]

William Carey University announces Tradition expansion

A rendering of 3-story dormitories proposed or William Carey University's Tradition campus near the Gulf Coast.(William Carey University)

PINE BELT, Miss. (WDAM) - William Carey University not only has plans for continued expansion at its Tradition campus, but the new construction would transform the current commuter college into a residential campus

The planned additions would be the first since 2018, when Scianna and Sanderson halls were built on Carey’s Gulf Coast branch just off Mississippi 67.

One project would see the construction of a three-story dormitory to provide student housing, creating a residential campus. Current plans include a recreation area and a Student Success Center on the ground floor.

Also on the drawing board: A two-story building adjacent to Scianna Hall, scheduled to house a high-tech nursing simulation lab on the second floor and a full cafeteria on the first floor.

The new eatery would replace the existing Crusader Café, which currently serves only lunch.

“Our Tradition campus now accounts for more than 20 percent of William Carey’s enrollment,” WCU President Dr. Ben Burnett said. “We think these proposed additions will provide the spark needed to bring more attention to the Gulf Coast campus.

“Our prayer is that God will lead us to the necessary funds to make these dreams a reality.”

Dr. Cassandra Conner, vice president of WCU-Tradition, said the university strives to provide welcoming and supportive environments for students.

“The two new proposed buildings, the cafeteria/nursing center and student dormitory, will help reshape the Tradition Campus to better serve its students,” Conner said. “Both buildings have been designed to provide spaces for our students to meet, collaborate, study and learn.”

William Carey University has made a home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for almost 50 years

It all began in 1976, when Carey purchased the former Gulf Coast Military Academy property in Gulfport. Known as “Carey on the Coast,” the lovely 20-acre beachfront campus was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005.

Classes were held off-campus until 16 modular buildings could be set up.

But university leadership ultimately chose to build a new permanent home inland and bought 30 acres in the 4,800-acre Tradition Planned Community on Mississippi 67.

The new campus, known as William Carey University-Tradition, opened in August 2009. It consisted of a main administrative building, a classroom building, a small maintenance building, and a guard shack.

To schedule a campus tour, look for the “Visit” button at www.wmcarey.edu.
https://www.wdam.com/2024/02/23/care...ion-expansion/

Laurel library to transform trolley into bookmobile

LAUREL Miss. (WDAM) - The Laurel-Jones County Library will soon be offering its services on wheels.

The library is renovating a 1989 Chance Trolley into a place of learning.

The library trolley/bookmobile will have bookshelves, Wi-Fi, printers, laptop stations and more, offering a rainbow of services.

Leaders are teaming up with various agencies to create route schedules to provide outreach services in the county.

The library said it needs sponsors and money to get the trolley up and running and also volunteers to help make the trolley come to life.

“We want people to know that the library is not just for books,” said LJCL Director Karyn Walsh. “It’s a community resource for everything. If we don’t have something and you’re looking for something, chances are we can hook you up with someone who can get that information to you.”

The library plans to have the trolley ready by June 1 for summer reading.

To participate in the project, contact the library at (601) 428-4313 or at https://laurel.lib.ms.us/
https://www.wdam.com/2024/02/23/laur...to-bookmobile/

Meridian City Council passes bond to fund new business
• Video Link

MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) - The Meridian City Council voted to pass a Tax Increment Financing Bond Tuesday evening that will go towards expanding the Meridian Crossroads shopping center.

The $1.9 million bond will provide the funds necessary for the project.

Council members say they are excited to see Meridian growing and are thrilled for citizens to have another great shopping option in The Crossroads.

However, specific details of the project will be announced later this year.

“It’s exciting because we have been tinkering with this for probably the past three years where they’ve come and said they were ready and then they back up,” said Mayor Jimmie Smith. “Now they say they are ready, and they are coming.”

Local shoppers are also excited about this new opportunity.

“I’m very excited that we have new business coming in,” said Ronda Hickman, Aldi customer. “It keeps us from going so long to other stores so that we can do it right here at home.”

Another local customer said she loves shopping in The Crossroads due to safety and convenience, but she has a couple of favorite places.

“I like Newk’s and I like Hobby Lobby so those are two of my favorite spots to go” said Joyce Cox, a Hobby Lobby customer.

WTOK will follow up with more details on the new development once they are announced.
https://www.wtok.com/2024/02/21/meri...ness/?tbref=hp

Gulfport, CTA celebrate new bridge tram with ribbon cutting
• Video Link

GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) - ALL ABOARD! Free tram rides between Jones Park and the Mississippi Aquarium will begin soon and earlier than expected.

“This was a remarkable project,” said Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes. “A lot of engineering went into it, a lot of architecture, planning and design and construction. And they still finished two months ahead of time.”

The bridge connecting Jones Park to the Mississippi Aquarium will not only offer free, ADA-accessible tram rides but also already is open to pedestrians and cyclists.

“Anybody can use it, 24 hours a day,” said Jerry Dodge, CTA Board of Commissioners Chairman. “It’s lighted at night so it’s safe. Coast Transit Authority has security all the time.”

Safety is a big proponent of why the bridge came to be in the first place.

“Every year we have about 200,000 people cross Highway 90 here,” said Hewes. “Particularly during Harbor Lights which is over 100,000 a year. So this is going to be a safety element, but I really believe it’s a quality of life element.”

The tram will be available for rides beginning in March and through Labor Day, operating during regular aquarium hours.

The city also celebrated the unveiling of a new historical marker in the same area for what is now called the Gulfport Transit Center, formally the Harrison County Library.

“It kind of harkens back to a different type of architecture,” said Hewes. “But in its own light, it stands on its own. But to be included as part of Gulfport’s history and the new side of where we’re going for the future. It’s just a great combination for our downtown.”
https://www.wlox.com/2024/02/23/gulf...ibbon-cutting/

American Queen Voyages ceases operations, cruises cancelled

American Queen Voyages, which operates river cruise boats that dock in Natchez, ceased all operations as of Tuesday and cancelled all future voyages. The shutdown was made public via an outgoing message on the company’s reservation call line and in messages to employees. “American Queen Voyages has made the difficult decision to shut down and all future cruises have been cancelled. Guests and customers should expect to be fully refunded for cancelled cruises,” the reservation line message states.

The shutdown comes just days after a spokesperson said the company had suspended its cruises in the lower Mississippi River but expected to resume the cruises in March. “We just heard this news,” Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said Tuesday evening. “We are of course saddened by it.” American Queen Voyages is one of three cruise companies which docks in Natchez and Vidalia, La. American Queen Voyages operates the American Queen and the American Countess, both of which have been docking in Natchez during the past year, and the American Duchess on the Mississippi River. The American Queen is the largest paddlewheel steamboat ever built and has long docked in Natchez.

According to news reports, employees on the fleet and in the Fort Lauderdale headquarters were told their terminations were effective 5 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Employees were told all business operations were ceasing “due to unfortunate business circumstances and an inability to obtain sufficient capital at a commercially reasonable rate to continue operations.” Recently, some of the travel agencies that book cruises have suspended sales of American Queen Voyages cruises over service issues, according to a story online at Travel Weekly. Among those are Signature Travel Network, Pleasant Holidays and AAA Travel, the website reports. Virtuoso also removed American Queen Voyages from its preferred supplier list. An American Queen spokesperson issued an apology, according to the website’s story. “We acknowledge and apologize for the issues. American Queen Voyages deeply values all of our travel agent partners and are taking all matters very seriously. We are working to address the situation as quickly as possible,” the spokesperson said. A spokesperson said the issues were financial in nature, but were being resolved.

Gibson said he remains optimistic that the American Queen boats will return. “We are so grateful to American Queen for all of the years they supported Natchez and we are optimistic that there will be eventually a transition to another owner,” he said. “I’m hopeful this will be a temporary lapse in their ability to bring tourists to Natchez.” American Cruise Lines and Viking Cruises also dock in Natchez. Gibson said Natchez typically sees 4 to 6 boats docking per week, at least 40 weeks of the year. He also said while other boats have been filled to capacity, the American Queen boats have not been full in recent months. “I can tell you that this morning had a great conversation with Charlie Roberston who is CEO of American Cruise Lines who shared with me that they are doing so well they have decided to bring more ships to the Mississippi River,” Gibson said. “Viking has also indicated the same. And considering that these boats carry hundreds of people arriving each week for more than 40 weeks out of the year, that continues to bode well for our local economy.” This is a developing story and more information on the closures will be released as it is collected. According to the company’s recorded message, customers in need of a refund may begin the process by visiting www.aqvrefunds.com; however, as of Tuesday night, the url leads to an “403 -Forbidden: Access is Denied” message.

https://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2024...ses-cancelled/

[vetteking]

Developers Break Ground on Senior Housing and Health Center in Jackson, Mississippi
Replacing an old hotel, The Pearl is expected to be the first Fitwel-certified building in the state.

The Pearl in Jackson, Mississippi, will be the Gulf Coast Housing Partnership’s second Health + Housing pilot project. The program utilizes investments provided by health care payors, including Medicaid Managed Care Organizations, to help fund projects.

An abandoned Holiday Inn site is being transformed into a new affordable housing and health care development in Jackson, Mississippi.

Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba recently joined real estate developer Gulf Coast Housing Partnership (GCHP), co-developer Pearl Street Community Development Corp. (CDC), and UnitedHealthcare at a groundbreaking ceremony for the $28 million development.

“This satisfies two vital needs for the city of Jackson at the same time,” Lumumba said. “First, it will provide needed medical care for our residents. Second, it will redevelop and renovate a highly visible section of our city that has suffered from years of neglect and blight. These are the kind of projects and partnerships we seek to elevate in our pursuit of an economy based on the dignity of all residents.”

The Pearl will have 76 one- and two-bedroom apartments reserved for seniors 55 or older. The community is designed with elements that facilitate aging in place, including a pool, a fitness center, and a community room. The Pearl will be the first Fitwel-certified building in Mississippi, according to the team. Fitwel is a building rating system created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to guide building design. At The Pearl, this includes the prominent placement of walkways and stairwells to encourage movement and improve the health of building occupants.

Jackson Hinds Comprehensive Health Center (JHCHC) will operate an onsite Federally Qualified Health Center and employ community health care workers that will serve both residents of The Pearl and the surrounding community. JHCHC is the largest provider of primary health care services to low-income, underinsured, and uninsured individuals in Mississippi.


The site of a former Holiday Inn and Jackson Southwest Hotel will be revitalized with affordable housing and a health center in Jackson, Mississippi.

Samuel H. Boyd, the pastor of Pearl Street African American Methodist Church and executive director of Pearl Street CDC, said that the desire to create senior housing in Southwest Jackson first came to him as a vision in 2007. Seven years later, in 2014, the property on Highway 80 was listed for sale, and he saw this as an answer to his prayers.

“I thank God for the faithful members of Pearl Street Church, Pearl Street CDC, and community leaders who helped us purchase this property,” Boyd said. “I am also thankful for our developer, GCHP, and our partners and investors for believing in the vision to help make it come to fruition today.”

The Pearl is one of two pilot projects under GCHP’s Health + Housing concept, which recognizes the significant role quality affordable housing and access to culturally competent health care has on an individual’s health outcomes. The health care delivery model is inspired by the learnings of Mississippi physician and health care visionary Dr. Aaron Shirley.

Health + Housing utilizes investments provided by health care payors, including Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), to help fund projects like The Pearl. In Jackson, UnitedHealthcare is supporting The Pearl with an investment of $3 million as part of its commitment to affordable housing and health care in Mississippi.

“It is our goal to ensure our members have the housing, health care, and employment necessary to live healthier lives and thrive in their communities,” said J. Michael Parnell, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Mississippi. “This development is a proven way to provide access to many things that are essential to them, and it is driven by formative research, consumer behaviors, and patient needs.”

GCHP’s Health + Housing concept received national recognition in August 2020 when the developer was selected as one of six winners out of 900 applicants in the national Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge sponsored by Wells Fargo and Enterprise Community Partners.

“GCHP’s mission to create affordable housing and stronger communities throughout the Gulf Coast is only possible through our partnerships,” said Kathy Laborde, GCHP president and CEO. “Together we will be able to transform this property and will improve the health outcomes for the residents of The Pearl and the surrounding community. “

Additional funding support for The Pearl is being provided by the city of Jackson, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, Federal Home Bank of Dallas, Hinds County Board of Supervisors, Mississippi Home Corp., Mississippi Regional Housing Authority VI, Regions Bank, and Trustmark Bank.

GCHP hired Snyder Environmental & Construction, Fountain Construction, and McCarty Architects for The Pearl, which has an estimated completion date of fall 2023.
https://www.housingfinance.com/devel...-mississippi_o

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce welcomes Paws Up Pet & House sitting LLC

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce
2d ·
What a great time we had celebrating Paws Up Pet & House sitting LLC with a ribbon cutting! We are so excited to have you in our Chamber family!
Spoiling and snuggling your pets is Shalon’s specialty. With 27 years experience you can feel rest assured your pet is in good hands! Drop in and extended stay services are offered. Contact Shalon to discuss your pet and housesitting needs!
Visit her facebook page or call 662-306-6262!
Thank you Shalon for making us YOUR Chamber!
https://www.facebook.com/HernandoMSC...WdkHzv8u9rvHxl

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce welcomes Market 23 Hernando

We had such a great time celebrating Molly Beth and Trey Jolly with a ribbon cutting for Market 23 Hernando! So thankful to have them here in Hernando!
They have a variety of options from meal preps to low carb meal preps to monster bowls, salads, sandwiches and more! Did I mention they also cater!
Visit their location at 2362 McIngvale Rd. * Hernando, MS 38632 or you can call 662-317-1535.
Thank you Molly Beth and Trey for making us YOUR chamber!
https://www.facebook.com/HernandoMSC...s7t4KpMJtYyvyl

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce welcomes In Focus Psychiatry

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce
February 15 at 8:19 PM ·
We had such a great morning, celebrating Erin and her amazing staff at In Focus Psychiatry with a ribbon cutting!
In Focus Psychiatry focuses on your unique needs and experiences to design a treatment plan that will help you grow in flourish. They treat individuals ages 4 and up.
We are so excited to have them in Hernando! They are located at 220 Oak Tree Dr. * Hernando, MS 38632 and they can be reached by calling 662–510-8606 or visit their website www.infocuspsych.com
Thank you for making us YOUR Chamber!
Jody Taylor Woody Derrick Michaud Community Bank - Carson Phillips & Carrie Duncan Darlene Johns Southern Bancorp - Carrie Duncan & Carson Phillips
https://www.facebook.com/HernandoMSC...TeRFpPLRG2VA7l

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce welcomes Magnolia Wildlife Education, Conservation and Rehabilitation, Inc.

Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce
February 7 at 11:46 AM ·
So excited to share with the Southaven Chamber of Commerce our ribbon cutting for Magnolia Wildlife Education, Conservation and Rehabilitation, Inc. ! Debbie has such a passion for her every animal big or small! We are so blessed to have you here in Hernando and your amazing organization!
Any questions for Debbie please call 901-254-4295
Thank you again Debbie for giving us the opportunity to share you celebration!
https://www.facebook.com/HernandoMSC...zkjrRP4cNr9KEl

[vetteking]

Olive Branch is getting a new hotel

Skeen Engineering
January 25 ·
Civil plans prepared by Skeen Engineering have now been approved by the City of Olive Branch, MS for the construction of a new Best Western Glo Hotel on Midsouth Drive. We are thankful for the opportunity to contribute to this project.

https://www.facebook.com/HernandoMSC...oCR5bJeixTFdtl

DeSoto County Agri-Education Center

DeSoto County Agri-Education Center
January 5 ·
The new year is off to a productive start!
The arena's red iron frame is already up, and there is concrete for the community building!
The center is expected to open during the spring of 2025!



https://www.facebook.com/DeSotoAgriE...wGf8LPn6gztpSl

[vetteking]

What will happen with Jackson Public Schools buildings set to close? See what district has in store

Abandoned buildings and properties are a persistent issue that faces the City of Jackson, and more could be added to the list with the closures of 20 schools owned by the Jackson Public School District.

In an effort to prevent this from happening, JPS has created a Facilities Repurposing Advisory Committee, responsible for helping the district figure out the best way the schools can be reutilized for future use in the community.

At the JPS Board of Trustees meeting on Dec. 19, the school board voted 5-1 to close 11 schools, with two being merged. Other facilities on the list were closed by the district in the past.

The closings are a part of the district's optimization plan, which was first presented to the board by Superintendent Errick Greene in October 2023, though 16 were originally planned.


The main reasons for the closures or consolidations per the optimization plan are declining enrollment, expensive investments in the school's facilities and issues with staffing teachers.

Here is the full list of facilities JPS are trying to figure out how to repurpose:
Baker Elementary School
Brown Elementary School
Rowan Middle School
Siwell Middle School
Watkins Elementary School
Woodville Heights Elementary School
Dawson Elementary School
Raines Elementary School
Lake Elementary School
Lester Elementary School
Marshall Elementary School
Shirley Elementary School
Smith Elementary School
Sykes Elementary School
Barr Elementary School
Brinkley Middle School
Chastain Middle School
French - REAP
George Elementary School
Wingfield High School

During the school board's first meeting on Feb. 6, Greene reported the committee held its first meeting on Jan. 30. He said a few schools, though he wasn't specific, have already been in discussions for how to be repurposed. One is in partnership with the city's Department of Planning and Development to be used for housing purposes. Three others have been proposed to be demolished to create green space.

Other outcomes of the meeting, included a request for proposals "to formally invite potential purchasers or lessees or developers to express their interest in one or another of our facilities." The RFP has no closing date, Greene said, so the district can continue gathering interest from entities.

"We fairly regularly hear from various members of the public around some interest or with questions about one facility or another, so this would be a formal way for people to engage with us and share their thoughts about how they might utilize (the facilities) and for us to consider," Greene said.

Secondly, the committee discussed the need for more marketing of the facilities, so people know they are available.

"That's a charge that came out of the meeting. To rethink our use of the web-page with that information, kind of connected also to the RFP issuance and even thinking about broader about broader engagement with the community," Greene said.

"We would continue to develop some common understanding around various opportunities, looking at models in other states and other districts for how they repurpose schools. Some of the financial opportunities and funding opportunities for some of these potential projects and also obviously to consider any proposals that we get prior to that meeting," Greene said.

https://www.clarionledger.com/story/...e/72708431007/

More coverage on the news
• Video Link

Topgolf breaks ground in Ridgeland

More than 200 people joined GJCP member PraCon Global Investment Group at the official groundbreaking for Topgolf Mississippi, which will anchor a 77-acre mixed-use development, Prado Vista at Ridgeland.
State, regional and local officials spoke before the groundbreaking celebrating the commencement of construction of the state’s first Topgolf location. A national leader in sports entertainment, Topgolf expects to be open by December 2024.
https://www.facebook.com/GreaterJack...4oSuVPkXhgT2il

More coverage on the news
• Video Link

[vetteking]

Brandon announces new retail area near Home Depot
• Video Link

BRANDON, Miss. (WJTV) – The City of Brandon hosted a development announcement for a new retail area.

The retail area will be located on Orleans Way near Home Depot just off of Highway 18 and close to Interstate 20.

The property, which will be named Orleans Place, will host a large retail outlet and other amenities for area residents.

“The City of Brandon and our Brandon families have waited with great anticipation for this development. We are grateful for the developers who have come to Brandon to be a part of our community and look forward to a long-lasting relationship,” said Brandon Mayor Butch Lee.

Officials announced Sullivan’s Marketplace will open in the area. The grocery store will take up 38,848 square feet. Sullivan’s has another location in Gluckstadt.

According to officials, another 35,779 square feet will be for mixed retail/dining.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...ar-home-depot/

Rankin County Chamber
·
Exciting times ahead for Brandon as the Orleans Center takes shape, promising a great addition to the community! 🌟 Get ready for Sullivan's and a restaurant and retail space. This development is going to bring more life to Brandon and Rankin County!




https://www.facebook.com/RankinCount...RTTMXYkgdSS1Gl

Rankin County Chamber of Commerce welcomes Burgers Blues Barbecue - Flowood

Rankin County Chamber
1h ·
We enjoyed celebrating Burgers & Blues at their Ribbon Cutting for their Flowood location! We are happy that they are a part of our Rankin Chamber family. ✂️💚
Burgers Blues Barbecue - Flowood is the third location for their restaurant family. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday-Friday. BBB offers B3 Catering which has dynamic options for weddings, events, and more. We are excited to see this new addition for Burgers & Blues!
📍108 Market St Suite B, Flowood, MS 39232
📞(601) 706-2060
https://www.facebook.com/RankinCount...KmuCg9Hee1Mynl

Rankin County Chamber of Commerce welcomes Region 8's new Crisis Stabilization Unit

Rankin County Chamber
·
We enjoyed attending the Ribbon Cutting and Building Dedication at Region 8's new Crisis Stabilization Unit. 💚✂️
The Region 8 Crisis Stabilization Unit was dedicated to Larry Swales for his commitment and effort towards mental health here in Rankin County. The Rankin County Board of Supervisors and Region 8 have put effort into bringing this unit to allow citizens to receive the care they need within our community borders. We are excited to see the impact Region 8 will make with this new unit!
📍 613 Marquette Rd., Brandon, MS 39042
https://www.facebook.com/RankinCount...yCwTNAdrpt7QMl

Clinton Chamber of Commerce welcomes 7 Brew Coffee

Clinton Chamber of Commerce
2h ·
We had a great time celebrating the grand opening and ribbon cutting for 7 Brew Coffee on February 27, 2024!
The mission of 7 Brew is to Cultivate Kindness, and their entire "Brew Crew" does just that! From the moment you enter the drive thru, you’ll be welcomed with a big smile. 7 Brew created 45 new jobs in Clinton with its opening and expect to see those numbers growing even more in the future!
If you haven’t been by to try a 7 Brew drink, we encourage you to stop by soon. Their extensive menu has something for everyone!
Open 7 days a week:
Sunday - Thursday: 5:30am - 10:00pm
Friday & Saturday: 5:30am - 11:00pm
📍107 Hwy 80 West Clinton, MS 39056
https://www.facebook.com/ClintonCham...u9ySTT3enMmbCl

[vetteking]

‘Madison at Main’ project back in planning stages

MADISON, Miss. (WLBT) - The city of Madison is once again planning out a massive development that will become the ‘epicenter’ of the downtown area.

The project, known as ‘Main at Madison,’ was first revealed over four years ago by Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler.

In a nutshell, the project was intended to take the 17-acre property right off Main Street and Highway 51 and turn it into a widespread center.

Originally, the site was intended to feature retail space, office space, residential properties, restaurants, and even an entertainment venue.

The city’s Director of Planning and Community Development says that the project was ultimately stalled due to the nature surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We had a developer...a potential developer on board, and we were very excited,” said Kianca Guyton. “Of course, when COVID hit, those things were stalled.”

The former developer tasked with the project is Greenstone Properties, an Atlanta-based real-estate developer.

The old project renderings are still available on their website, but Guyton says Mayor Butler has different plans for how the project will look.

“The mayor had Mississippi State come in and give us some ideas about the downtown development, and we just thought it would be a great idea, an amazing idea, to bring them back in as we restart this project,” said Guyton.

Tuesday night at the Madison Square Center, representatives from Mississippi State’s Small Town Center program laid out several picture-style surveys.

Each layout offered different options for what those of you living in Madison may want to see once the project is complete.

“It will be a key development of the town center of Madison,” said Hal Ellison, a resident. “We’ve been looking for such an element for a long time, and I think that this group that’s put these ideas down for us is an ideal group to stimulate those thoughts for the citizens and to come up with reasonable expectations for us.”

Results from the survey will be taken back to Mississippi State, where they will complete their study based on each residents’ selections.

Once that’s concluded, the university will bring back plans to the city for what the center could look like.

“It’s been exciting to kind of restart this again and rethink where everybody wants to be, and obviously Madison has grown so much since then,” said Madison’s Ward 3 Alderman, Janie Jarvis.

Since that study is still yet to be completed, there is no timetable for how long it will be before a masterplan is unveiled or how much the project could potentially cost.

One thing about the project that still remains the same is that Mayor Butler says ‘Madison at Main’ will become the “heartbeat of the city.”
https://www.wlbt.com/2024/02/28/madi...anning-stages/

Meet Locke Ward, a lifelong Jacksonian who is leading efforts to clean the capital city

• Video Link

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - Locke Ward started his clean-up efforts back in November last year on Frontage Road off of I-55.

He has been driving I-55 his entire life and has slowly seen trash build up. This inspired him to start this work.

“Basically, I kept driving by the same spot over and over again, and when I came home I told my wife one day... I said, ‘I am sick and tired of looking at all this trash,’” Locke Ward said. “I said, ‘I’m gonna clean this little area myself.’ And then, to be honest, it’s just kind of snowballed on me. I’m not doing this to make money. I’m doing this because I was tired of looking at all the trash.”

He wants to expand his efforts, though. Ward now has a church volunteer group that is working on Woodrow Wilson on the weekends.

These efforts have raised over $50,000, which led him to create a non-profit to continue this work.

Businesses in the area have been outspoken about what Ward has done and can’t thank him enough.

“Locke has taken the bull by the horns,” Wright Scott said. “He’s really gotten out. He’s been a proven leader. He said, you know what, if somebody’s not gonna do this, I’m gonna go out and do it myself.”

“It was heartwarming, you know, to see someone pouring themselves into this community and trying to make an effort,” Paxton Rooks said.

While the Mississippi Department of Transportation highlights the risks of these efforts, they are thankful as it helps their clean-up work as well.

“As both an MDOT employee and Jacksonian, we really appreciate those efforts,” Michael Flood said. “It is a big help to us as we have crews that have got to maintain 22 counties in this central district, and they can’t devote every day to picking up specific areas of Jackson.”

MDOT and the city of Jackson have now also started working with Locke Ward to make all of his clean-up efforts legal by making the work on behalf of the city.

You can donate to Locke’s Non-Profit “Clean Up Jackson” by sending a check to the First Commercial Bank under the name of the non-profit or you can use the link here (https://www.gofundme.com/f/clean-up-...ource=customer) for the GoFundMe page.
https://www.wlbt.com/2024/02/29/meet...-capital-city/

New Starkville sports complex to welcome first big tournament
• Video Link

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WTVA) – Starkville is working to achieve its goals, and this summer is the first step with the Babe Ruth Tournament.

The Babe Ruth Tournament will make a huge difference for Starkville, and it is exactly why the city built its brand new park named Cornerstone to hold events like these.

“Anything from Arkansas, Florida to west Texas, it's going to be pretty amazing. So it's one of our goals. We got a lot of goals but that is a goal in the right direction,” said Brandon Doherty, the Director of Parks and Recreation in Starkville.

He is in charge of a lot of events, including the Babe Ruth Tournament.

Part of that job is making sure things are running smoothly for the 65+ teams coming to town from July 17 through July 21.

Doherty said that when he got the call, it felt fantastic. However, he wanted to make sure it was special.

Several residents shared their excitement about the park and the tournament with WTVA on Tuesday, mentioning everything from the trees to the support it does for the nearby businesses.

The team at Starkville Parks and Recreation is working hard to get ready for the tournament.

Doherty said there will be a pack-the-pickup as one of the first events of the weekend.
https://www.wtva.com/news/new-starkv...63ea0ceb1.html

Meridian High School hosts groundbreaking ceremony
• Video Link
This is the start of construction on new administration offices and a new entry way. It’s intended to ensure that students and staff are safe at all times

MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) -The Meridian Public School District broke ground on an addition to Meridian High School’s campus Monday afternoon.

This is the start of construction on new administration offices and a new entry way. It’s intended to ensure that students and staff are safe at all times and will update the campus.

“I just want to say thank you to the community, I know people wondered if we would be able tot get the bond passed the first time or even if it would become a reality, and now it is a reality, our community said yes we’re investing in our schools , we’re good with the upgrades that are coming and so we’re excited that now its becoming a reality,” says Superintendent Dr. Amy Carter.

“We’re excited, its going to be a change to the high school, the whole outlook of the building will definitely be different its going to be a connection from the ninth-grade building to the main building and our children will no longer have to get wet when it’s raining and its for the betterment of our community and so I’m excited,” says Principal of Meridian High School Angela McQuarley.

The project is expected to be completed by February of 2025.
https://www.wtok.com/2024/02/27/grou...n-high-school/

Zaxby’s to open new location in Natchez

NATCHEZ Miss. (WJTV) – A new fast food restaurant will soon open in Natchez.

The Natchez Democrat reported Zaxby’s will open a location on Sgt. Prentiss Drive near Walmart.

According to officials, the restaurant is expected to open by late fall.
Zaxby’s offers a variety of chicken-related meals, including chicken fingers and wings.

Click here to find more Zaxby’s locations in Mississippi.
https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news...on-in-natchez/

Natchez future home of T-Mobile store

NATCHEZ — A dark brick, prefabricated building that quickly popped up at 340 John R. Junkin Drive near the Natchez Mall property is the future home of a T-Mobile store. Construction at the new store location is ongoing as of this week.  Roni Singleton, Senior Manager for PR and Corporate Communications at T-Mobile, said they expect the new location to be open by the late first quarter or early second quarter.

“It will be the first T-Mobile Store in Natchez and in Adams County. The next closest store is in Vicburg. The store is hiring for a handful of new positions,” he said. Job listings are online now for a Mobile Associate – Retail Sales for a new T-Mobile store opening in Natchez. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and authorized to work in the United States. Either a High School Diploma or a GED is required. Other work qualities include:

At least six months of customer service and sales experience in a retail environment is preferred. Applicants should be passionate customer advocates with a competitive drive and proven ability to succeed in a fast-paced sales environment. They should be willing to work alongside peers and store leaders, learning and sharing ideas, while serving customers and resolving issues. They should also effectively balance customer needs and performance goals.
https://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2024...-mobile-store/

Aldermen OK traffic study aimed at slowing down traffic, creating more parking spaces

NATCHEZ — Would two-way traffic on downtown streets slow down vehicles and create a safer environment for pedestrians and drivers? Would continuing the one-way flow of traffic on downtown streets, but cutting down to one lane from the current two lanes of traffic allow for diagonal parking, which would create more parking spaces and be safer? The Natchez Mayor and Board of Aldermen hope to get answers to those questions and more from a traffic study approved Tuesday.

The board voted 5 to 1 — Ward 2 Alderman Billie Joe Frazier voted nay — to spend $39,000 with Volkert Engineering to conduct a traffic study on downtown streets. “We have our upcoming micro-seal project downtown, so if this is something you are interested in doing, now may be the time,” said Justin Dollar, the city’s public works director. Dollar said the traffic study goes hand-in-hand with the city’s downtown master plan, which calls for finding ways to make downtown safer and more inviting for pedestrians and those living and working downtown by slowing down traffic. And the study would also recommend ways to create additional parking spaces downtown.

“The study would put together a bunch of scenarios and offer the pros and cons of each,” Dollar said. “Didn’t we do a traffic study once before, maybe a year ago?” asked Frazier. “No,” Dollar said. “We have talked about it a number of times, but have not done one with this downtown master plan.”

Ward 6 Alderman Curtis Moroney said the traffic study would benefit the city. “I would imagine they would study traffic patterns and parking and the speed of traffic. I would imagine it would benefit us,” Moroney said. Parallel parking on Main and Franklin streets can be a dangerous venture for those entering or exiting vehicles because of the speed of vehicles zooming past, he said. “I’m not saying (diagonal parking) is a good idea, but that’s why we do this traffic study. It would tell us you have X number of parking spaces now and if you do this new plan, you will end up with Y new parking spaces,” he said. Dollar said the study would be conducted in six steps and the public would be able to weigh in with thoughts and ideas during one of those steps. Ward 4 Alderwoman Felicia Bridgewater-Irving asked if business owners, specifically, would have an opportunity to be heard during the study. “We need their input,” she said. “This will be a comprehensive report,” Dollar said. The area to be studied includes Main and Franklin streets from MLK to Broadway and all cross streets within that area. “I thought we were going to have a parking garage downtown,” Frazier commented, which drew snickers from Mayor Dan Gibson and other aldermen. “I did, too,” the mayor replied, drawing more chuckles. Gibson said the study would consider, too, how deliveries are made to downtown businesses. “Our downtown merchants have to get deliveries and traffic has to keep moving at the same time,” he said.

https://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2024...arking-spaces/

[vetteking]

Happy Women’s History Month Mississippians!

[dmaTN]

Fast food restaurants? LOL LOL

[vetteking]

See how one bill could bring more Costcos, Trader Joe’s to state

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - A bill aimed at helping bring more Costco and Trader Joe’s locations to the state of Mississippi has cleared the House of Representatives.

On Friday, the House voted 65-21 to approve H.B. 328, which would allow business owners to hold up to three liquor store permits, as long as the liquor stores are located 100 miles apart.

Currently, state statute only allows for a person or entity to own or have a controlling stake in one permit, according to the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website.

Rep. Henry Zuber III, chair of the House State Affairs Committee, said the bill is needed to bring more big box retailers to the state, saying Mississippi will likely never get a second Costco or Trader Joe’s under current state statute.

“Trader Joe’s, Costco, Fresh Market... their business model depends on the sale of alcohol. They can only have one permit to sell alcohol, so where does Costco locate? Jackson, which is great; we’re happy for Jackson... Trader Joe’s Madison, [which is] great for Madison,” he said. “Once we pass this bill, I assure you, we will have other locations.”

Mississippi’s only Costco is located in Ridgeland on Highland Colony Parkway. The state does not have a Trader Joe’s, according to the retailer’s website.

However, it has been rumored that one would be coming to Prado Vista, a development featuring Top Golf under construction in Ridgeland.



Gabriel Prado, CEO and president of PraCon, the developer of Prado Vista, said he couldn’t comment on a grocery tenant for the project, but said he was in full support of the bill.

Rep. John Hines, who serves Bolivar, Issaquena, and Washington counties, questioned whether 328 would allow other retailers like Walmart and Kroger to sell liquor and whether that would drive smaller liquor stores out of business.

“It appears that the mom-and-pop stores, which have been the basis of our economy, are under attack,” he said. “I think we need more Bucc-ee’s, more Costcos, and all in the state of Mississippi. But why are we putting small businesses at risk of going out of business by this legislation?”

Mississippi Alcohol Beverage Control manages about 2,700 alcoholic beverage licenses throughout the state, according to the Department of Revenue’s website.

Zuber said retailers like the ones Hines mentioned would be able to obtain permits, as long as the liquor stores are separated from the main shopping areas. The package store at Costco, for instance, is walled off from the main retail area and has a separate entrance.

He disagreed that small businesses would be hurt by the proposed rules.

“Since the opening of Costco, there has not been one liquor store that was closed in Madison,” Zuber said. “Look at Louisiana, Tennessee, Alabama... There’s no limitation on the number of permits... [and] there has not been a mass closings of liquor stores in those states, either.”

Alabama state statute does not limit the number of liquor licenses a person may hold. However, each store they own must have a separate license, according to a copy of the statute found at Justia.com.
https://www.wlbt.com/2024/03/01/see-...er-joes-state/

Former NBA star on board for Jackson redevelopment project
• Video Link
Sports, entertainment center set to go up in place of old Jackson Square Promenade

JACKSON, Miss. —
Big plans are in the works to revitalize the old Jackson Square Promenade shopping center, according to City Council President Aaron Banks.

Banks said former NBA star Erick Dampier is driving the project at the site on Terry Road.

Buildings on the site were bulldozed last year.

The councilman said Dampier and his partners want to construct a huge sports and entertainment center that could host little league basketball and football teams, as well as an arena football squad.

Dampier is using private dollars to fund the project, Banks said. The old Apple Ridge shopping center on McDowell Road, which was razed last year, could also see redevelopment.

Banks said he hopes Dampier's vision could become a reality in the next two to three years.
https://www.wapt.com/article/former-...oject/60045873

New Jackson Fire Station replaces dilapidated building, bringing more resources to the community

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - A new fire station is now open and serving the Northwest Jackson community, without cost to local taxpayers.

The Northwest Jackson facility is expected to improve safety and provide more resources in the area.

“It’s a win-win situation for everyone,” said Jackson Fire Department Chief Willie Owens.

He believes the opening of new Fire Station 20 on Medgar Evers Boulevard is a big win for firefighters and the community. The 8,000-square-foot modern facility is spacious with a safe room for residents during severe weather.

Homeowners associations now have a larger meeting space. The $3.8 million dollar facility includes an updated kitchen and new separate living quarters for male and female firefighters.

“This station was built with Community Development Block Grant funding,” said Owens. “We call it CDBG funding, and of course, the taxpayers didn’t have to pay anything for this.”

The former 50-year-old station next door had roof, foundation, and air and heating problems.

The fire station serves as a voting precinct and will have larger space, separate public restrooms, and more parking.

“To have a safe room and all those different types of things yes that’s a great idea because in this community we need more,” said resident Joshua Williams. “We need a lot more change. We need a lot more new things. We need a better environment.”

“That is something wonderful,” said Jackson resident Calvin Wright. “It really is wonderful. The whole building is wonderful. There’s plenty of room for something new. Something old does get old.”

Within the fire station’s 10-mile service area is Hawkins Field.

“Hawkins Field is proposing to build an access road that will run from the fire station to their runways,” said Chief Owens. “Right now with the way we have to get to Hawkins Field from that station, it’ll take us about five to six minutes. But with this access road that they propose to build it will only take us a minute or two.”

The old fire station is scheduled to be demolished in the coming weeks.

A ribbon cutting and open house are in the works.
https://www.wlbt.com/2024/03/02/new-...ces-community/

New parking meters in downtown Jackson will accept credit cards

An image showing what the new parking kiosks should look like

The removal of the existing parking meters in downtown Jackson, the first step in replacing them with parking kiosks that will allow drivers to pay using cards, is expected to start this spring. Chloe Dotson, director of planning and development for the city of Jackson, said the parking meters in place are expected to be taken out in the next three to four weeks. Signage will be insta...
https://www.northsidesun.com/new-par...&e_sort_order=

Lights out: Council addresses issue of faulty traffic lights throughout city

Portable stop signs can be found throughout the city including this one on Briarwood Drive

Traffic signals that need repairs remain a problem in the city of Jackson. Last week, temporary stop signs were in place in the heart of downtown at Pascagoula and President streets because the traffic signal did not work. This location joined several throughout the Northside area with the temporary stop signs. That location, which according to data from the Mississippi Department of ...
https://www.northsidesun.com/local-c...&e_sort_order=

Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce hosts HBCU College Fair

Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce
·
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the HBCU College Fair! 🎉 Your presence and support not only made it a tremendous success, but also empowered and enlightened students with valuable opportunities and connections. Here's to a future filled with endless possibilities!
https://www.facebook.com/MSCoastCham...G51ropkfJqpbhl

Raymond Chamber of Commerce celebrates its members at the Eagle Ridge Conference Center & Resort

Raymond Chamber of Commerce added 50 photos and a video to the album: Annual Membership Celebration 2/29/24.
Yesterday at 9:51 AM ·
We had a great time celebrating our members, the opportunity to serve and the community we love so much. Many thanks to everyone who came and helped make it a night to remember. Eagle Ridge Conference Center & Resort knocked it out of the park with great food and amenities.
https://www.facebook.com/RaymondMsCh...AFJkujDkRr82Nl