Jackson Free Press

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Hundreds attended the kickoff event Wednesday for a new marketing campaign aimed at promoting the city of Jackson's culture, food and commerce to potential visitors.

The "Celebrate Jackson" campaign was launched with a program that included 35 students from the Mississippi School for the Blind marching band performing outside City Hall. Hundreds attended the campaign's kickoff.

City leaders said they'll use the "Celebrate Jackson" brand to highlight attractions including museums, restaurants and universities. The campaign will cost $98,000.

They said the campaign is designed to foster economic development by bringing more visitors to the city.

"We want to become a destination for the rest of the state, but also for the region," Mayor Harvey Johnson said at the event. "We want to be able to tell our story, the story of the capital city."

Restaurant owner Jeff Good said the campaign can be good for Jackson businesses if executed right.

"I'm a marketer," he said. "I like the package. Now the challenge is what are we going to do with it? Because you've got to fulfill what you say you are."

City leaders said the campaign will include billboards and TV commercials.

"This campaign will elevate community pride," city spokesman Chris Mims said.

Wednesday's program included Jackson's best known restaurants. Workers at booths passed out samples of their menus.

Tina Hooper, who works downtown, said she hasn't eaten at some of the restaurants that were featured.

"I think this is fascinating," said Hooper. "They've got all kinds of food, a good selection, nice portions."