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By Bettye Bell

NATCHEZ — The Frazier Education and Cultural Enrichment Center, formerly known as Frazier Elementary School, will celebrate its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 11 a.m. The historic event will take place at the center’s facility located at 1445 George F. Blvd, Natchez, Mississippi, followed by a Homecoming Alumni Brunch at 12:00 p.m. The two events aim to foster community engagement centered on education, cultural diversity, and economic empowerment.

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will serve as an invitation for residents to get involved in the development of the center’s programming. Community members will have the opportunity to volunteer as sponsors or hosts for various activities to be held at the center throughout the year. Two key initiatives have already been outlined for the center: workforce training and education. Cultural engagement will be interwoven into every program, reinforcing the center’s commitment to nurturing a thriving, inclusive community.

“We want the community to come out and hear firsthand what we have in store for the remainder of this year and beyond,” said Bettye Bell, co-founder of the center and leader of a nonprofit called Pretty Girls with Brain. “This center is designed to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for everyone, with a special focus on providing opportunities for economic growth and cultural enrichment.”

Jarita Frazier King, who heads a nonprofit, Southwest Wellness Association of Mississippi emphasized the importance of community involvement. “This center represents a collaborative effort.” King said, “We’re excited to engage with Natchez residents and offer meaningful programs that will make a lasting impact on our region.”

The Natchez Homecoming Alumni Brunch will follow immediately after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, providing an opportunity for former students of Frazier Elementary and the wider community to reconnect and celebrate the future of the center. Tickets for the brunch are available for purchase on Eventbrite or locally at My Shoe Closet, located at 705 Franklin Street in Natchez.

The center’s mission is to serve as a hub for lifelong learning, where education, culture, and economic development intersect to benefit the broader Natchez community. All residents are encouraged to attend and support the center’s vision of a stronger, more vibrant future.

For more information about the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony contact Bettye Bell at 601-456-2002 or Jarita Frazier King at 601-807-1008. To purchase brunch tickets, visit Eventbrite or stop by My Shoe Kloset at 705 Franklin St.