Bobby Jordan started shining shoes in his father’s barber shop nearly 50 years ago.
Now, Jordan’s Barber Shop is celebrating 50 years in Columbus with one chair dedicated for shoe shining. Jordan mainly cuts hair now, but occasionally still shines shoes or sneakers upon request. Since taking over for his father nearly 20 years ago, Jordan has expanded the barber shop, offering training and jobs to people in need.
But it’s not just about cutting hair. Jordan says he’s created a community around his little corner of the world.
“It’s a family tradition,” Jordan said. “I always say, ‘If you want to know something, go to the barber shop.'”
Jordan’s Barber Shop, 1910 Military Road, is open Tuesdays through Saturday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. It services men and women. Jordan said he hopes the family tradition continues through his son, who is currently a barber alongside him.
Over on Highway 45, a new screen print shop is opening by early January. Sherman Bowen is opening Express T-shirts and Graphics at 125 Lincoln Road, Suite A. Bowen said he will offer custom shirts and graphic design for customers Monday through Saturday 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
In Starkville, a new coffee joint is opening in early January.
Blair Edwards founded The People’s Cup Micro-roastery last year, where he mainly served coffee during city events like the Farmers’ Market. Now, he is opening his first brick and mortar coffee shop in the heart of the Cotton District.
Edwards started out working as a barista, where he developed a passion for coffee. Eventually, he began roasting his own coffee beans. He will open shop in a red house at 12-1/2 Lummus St.
Wanting to add a New Orleans-esque vibe, Edwards said customers will order a coffee beverage at the window and relax in the courtyard with free Wi-Fi. The most important factor, he added, is having ethically sourced coffee beans, which he orders from small and reputable farms rather than larger corporations. By ethically sourced, Edwards said, the beans come from farms that are clean, healthy and help sustain the environment. When he gets the coffee beans, he will air-roast in-house and make fresh coffees of the day. Edwards won’t be serving espresso drinks — rather customers can enjoy a smooth French press, cold brew or pour-over coffees. From the get-go, Edwards will open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-noon. Hours may extend depending on demand.
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