In the heart of Harrison County, Mississippi, a new cannabis dispensary named Blessed Goat has commenced operations at the Oak Square shopping center. Following five weeks of preparation, the store held its soft opening on Friday. Located on Firetower Road, this strategic position was chosen for its zoning suitability and proximity to patient needs. The co-owners, Joe Pepe and his mother Gina, have expressed both optimism and caution about the impact of nearby construction projects, particularly the development of a well-known beaver store. Despite potential challenges, they remain committed to serving their community.

The choice of location for Blessed Goat was influenced by several factors. Joe Pepe highlighted that the land was available and under new construction when they decided to open the dispensary. Proper zoning regulations played a crucial role in selecting this spot. "It was very good timing," he remarked, noting that everything aligned perfectly for them. The decision to establish the shop was made even before the neighboring Buc-ee’s began its construction. Both Joe and Gina acknowledged that the presence of Buc-ee’s could either benefit or pose challenges to their business. However, their primary focus remains on meeting the needs of their patients.

Gina Pepe emphasized the importance of convenience for their customers. Many people had been requesting a closer dispensary, tired of traveling long distances to obtain their medication. “Coming down to Bay St. Louis is not as convenient for everyone,” she explained. The dispensary aims to provide easier access to essential medicines for residents in the area. Joe added that while Buc-ee’s might influence future developments, especially if recreational cannabis becomes legalized, their current priority is serving their existing customer base. They chose this location based on the requests from local residents living on Firetower Road.

As Blessed Goat prepares for its official opening on Saturday, February 1st, the team remains dedicated to providing quality services to their community. The dispensary's strategic location and commitment to patient care ensure that it will play a vital role in the region's healthcare landscape. Regardless of external factors, Blessed Goat is set to become an integral part of Harrison County's commercial and medical infrastructure.