by David Chapman
Staff Writer
The patrons who stepped into the Beach Diner for the first time Thursday evening weren’t greeted by a typical hostess. Instead it was owners Stan Jordan and Barry Adeeb giving handshakes, hugs and personal greetings to more than 200 of their friends and associates who attended the new Mandarin location for a pre-opening event Thursday.
“It’s about getting friends, neighbors and those who helped make this possible together to show thanks,” said Jordan, who also sits on the Duval County School Board and is a former State Representative. “For those who don’t know us, it’s kind of an introduction.”
The neighborhood feel is something the business strives to achieve, said Adeeb, while providing “good food and good prices.”
While both Jordan and Adeeb were pleased with the turnout and seeing many familiar faces, it’s the local economic impact that had Jordan smiling. The restaurant has created 25 jobs and will provide a predicted sales tax figure of around $8,000 a month, said Jordan.
“Small businesses are what drive the economy,” said Jordan. “They are what’s going to help us get out of the situation we’re in .... we just all need to do our part to stimulate the economy and we’re doing our part.”
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