Main Street merchants support proposed FAMU campus

Many Main Street merchants pull no punches when asked their opinions about the Florida A&M University pharmacy school proposed for the Alatex Building.

“I think it’s the best thing in the world,” said Leon Johns, proprietor of Leon’s Barber Shop. “We don’t want this opportunity to get away.”

Sitting in Johns’ chair, retiree Ron Steele was in agreement.

“I hope they don’t mess around and let it get away, especially with that building just sitting there,” he said.

Down Main Street at the Red Raspberry, manager Jean Towery bustled among the gowns as she helped customers.

“I think it would bring business to everybody, not just Main Street,” she said.

“If there are more students coming here, it’s going to help everyone in our area,” Towery said. “Businesses will grow, instead of sending customers to Fort Walton Beach.”

Grace Ferdon, owner of the Tanning and Hair Center on Wilson Street, was discussing FAMU’s potential at Hart Printing.

“We need it bad!” said Ferdon. “I fully support it. Anything that comes in here that helps us grow, say yes, as long as it isn’t something illegal.”

Across the counter, manager Viola Owens said, “We’re just all for it. It’s one of the best things that could happen to Crestview.

“It’s going to be a real boon to our businesses,” Owens added. “Students need term papers, copies and reports made.”

Like most Downtown merchants, Owens offered residents the opportunity to sign a petition that is circulating among businesses showing their support for the proposed pharmacy school.

A block away, as Hideaway Pizza prepared to open for Tuesday’s lunch crowd, manager Flora Goodwin paused to say, “It’s absolutely wonderful!

“Crestview needs something like that school,” Goodwin said. “I think it’ll help not just Main Street, but Downtown Crestview it’ll help, too.”