On June 29, 2017, JP Centre/South Main Streets, along with Hyde Jackson Square Main Street and Egleston Square Main Street, recognized our Business of the Year and our Volunteer of the Year, with the Mayor on Main campaign and Mayor Marty Walsh.
Steve Murakishi, owner of Fire Opal JP, accepts his award from Mayor Walsh.
The JP Centre/South Main Streets Business of the Year is Fire Opal. Steve Murakishi, owner of Fire Opal, was on hand to accept his award from Mayor Walsh.
Inspired by creativity, design and the handmade, Fire Opal has been committed to American Craft, since 1984. Proprietors Sue Stein and Steve Murakishi dedicate themselves to bringing the best of handmade apparel, jewelry, ceramics, wood, glass and metal from artists across the country. They have been nationally recognized one of the Top 100 Retailers of American Craft, and one of 25 top retailers in North America by the Niche Top Retailer Award. Steve is also responsible for organizing Shop for Cause in Jamaica Plain. Steve organized and promoted this shopping extravaganza where local retailers donate a portion of their proceeds to a charitable organization of their choice, promoting not just our local economy but worthy causes. In 2016, the event raised thousands of dollars for a variety of great causes.
The Mayor on Main campaign also recognized our Volunteer of the Year, Bradley Brown.
As the owner of the The Blue Frog Bakery, he has been involved with Main Streets since 2004, and most recently as the former President of the Board. He helmed JP Centre/South Main Streets through an economic recovery and two executive directors, as well as the growth of the First Thursdays events in JP. He continues as an advocate in the community for small and local businesses.
Brad Brown, JPCSMS Volunteer of the Year, accepts his award from Mayor Walsh.
Thank you to all who came out to the ceremony at Alex’s Chimis in Hyde Jackson Square, and thank you to our Business of the Year and Volunteer of the Year!