Jaspers at corner of Independence and West End Blvd reopens, changes name

Since the city's Independence Street project began July 22, some businesses along the street have seen a significant decrease in sales. One business - Jaspers convenience store at the corner of Independence and West End Boulevard - took a proactive approach by closing on Sept. 8 and transforming its store into a Rhodes 101 stop.

Rhodes 101 president Keith Boeller said the inside of the store - which recently opened - looks remarkably different. Once inside, he said customers will notice a similar layout to other Rhodes 101s in the area. One unique aspect of the convenience store is a new brand of fried chicken the company is offering just to that store. I'm a big fried chicken fan and hope to make it over there real soon.

"When the Independence Street project began, we had the opportunity to go ahead and close it down," Boeller said. "We're excited about the new items we're able to offer to our customers."

Update on Rhodes' East Main Street development

A year ago, Rhodes 101 acquired a piece of property along Jackson's East Main Street with the intent of building a convenience store in 2009. If you've driven by that property lately, you'll notice a lack of progress there. Boeller said that while they'd love to start building a Rhodes 101 stop next year, the current economic situation has delayed their plans.