Jackson Free Press

Two More Businesses Are Coming To Farish Street. Mayor Johnson announced that two more businesses would be locating to the much anticipated Farish Street Entertainment District this month. Mississippi BBQ Company and Crescent City Beignets both signed agreements to bring their establishments to Jackson.

Mississippi BBQ Company was started by two friends with two great secret recipes, one for a rub and one for a sauce, in 2004. In the short time they’ve been open, their traditional BBQ dishes have become big hits. The company was founded in Raymond by Dr. Robert McGee and Marty Gardner.

Crescent City Beignets will offer Creole cuisine, along with its authentic beignets for that special flare of New Orleans right here on Farish Street.

The owner of Crescent City Beignets, Dr. Kenneth Williams, is also from Mississippi and the company is 100% minority owned.

“These two businesses are two more acts of faith. They are two more establishments that see the value in Jackson; who see the potential and who recognize that great things are happening here,” commented Mayor Johnson.

Renovation of the buildings should begin in April by these and others who have committed to the entertainment district. They should all be open by March of 2006.

Greater Belhaven Neighborhood Foundation Awarded $25,000 for its Urban Main Street Project

This week the Belhaven Neighborhood Foundation was awarded $25,000 for its Urban Main Street Project. The grant funds are in support of Greater Belhaven Neighborhood Foundation’s efforts to revitalize portions of Fortification Street and North State Street within the neighborhood, which have been designated as Urban Main Streets. The Foundation may use the funds for improvement efforts such as façade grant programs to encourage businesses to improve the aesthetic appeal of the outside of their buildings.

Mayor, CAO and Council President Among Top 50

BlackMississippi.com has selected Mayor Johnson, Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Otha Burton, and City Council President Dr. Leslie McLemore, among the 50 Most Influential African Americans in Mississippi.

The commemoration identifies, recognizes and honors citizens who have demonstrated abilities to positively impact and affect a significant number of people.

From the 50 people selected, one will be voted as the “2005 Most Influential African-American Mississippian”. Biographies and photos of the 50 chosen are listed on the BlackMississippi.com website. You can also cast a vote of your choice for the most influential for 2005.

The selections are testaments to the 50 recipients’ commitment to having a positive impact on thousands of people lives, while helping to shape the future of the state of Mississippi. Check out all 50 by clicking on:

http://www.blackmississippi.com/biography.html