Education group to roast Holloway

A.J. Holloway’s penny-pinching ways have become well-known to those familiar with the three-term Biloxi mayor, but Biloxians may learn even more about Holloway when he is roasted Tuesday, Sept. 16 by Biloxi First, a non-profit organization that supports public education in Biloxi.

The roast will take place at the Isle of Capri Casino Resort, with tax-deductible tickets for the dinner and program ranging from $50 for individuals up to $1,000 for a corporate table of 10. A cash bar also will be provided. More than half of the 300 tickets for the evening have been sold since tickets went on sale two weeks ago. For tickets, call or e-mail Susan Hunt at 435-6149.

Among those scheduled to help roast Holloway are philanthropist and former Mayor Jerry O’Keefe, Biloxi attorney Ron Peresich, advertising executive Reed Guice, Biloxi businesswoman Arlene Canaan, former Biloxi educator Bruce Stewart and Biloxi Public Affairs Manager Vincent Creel.

Biloxi First, a non-profit organization formed in 1989, provides grants to teachers to support classroom projects. In 2003 alone, 23 $500 grants were awarded.