Community Corner
Shaheen Leads the Charge for Small Business Saturday
Small businesses have led the way out of the recession, creating two out of three private sector jobs and employing our friends and family.
Before Sen. Jeanne Shaheen got too deep into the elegant emporium that is Beckonings, she asked someone to go back to the car and grab her wallet.
"I'm going to need it," said Shaheen, who had come to talk about the importance of supporting local businesses as the biggest retail shopping season closes in.
This week Black Friday – so named for putting retailers "in the black" with holiday sales – is followed by Small Business Saturday, and the bonus in Nashua is that Saturday also happens to be the annual Holiday Stroll, which will draw thousands of potential shoppers to the downtown.
Mayor Donnalee Lozeau warned Shaheen that she would see some empty storefronts on her way down Main Street, which might seem to signal bad news for Nashua.
"But for Nashua, right now, it's a great sign, because almost every one you'll see has something pending for an agreement." Lozeau said. "This is a great opportunity for downtown Nashua."
Although it's too soon to make any big announcements, some of the incoming businesses and changes anticipated along Main Street will include a Mexican restaurant, Charron Medical, moving from East Hollis to the old Coronis building, and a proposal by Martha's Exchange to restore their building to include rooftop dining. Also, Ocean State Job Lot will be joining the plaza at 300 Main Street.
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Touring Main Street along with Shaheen were: former Main Sen. Seth Goodall, now serving at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s regional administrator and Greta Johansson, SBA District Director; State Sen. Peggy Gilmour, and Executive Councilor Deborah Pignatelli.
Goodall said small businesses bring vitality to our Main Streets.
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"They are leading the way out of the recession and are creating two out of three private sector jobs – and they employ our friends and family," Goodall said.
The tour included Beckonings, Alec's Shoe Store and Martha's Exchange.
Residents are encouraged to participate in Small Business Saturday by seeking out some of the unique items found only at local businesses. You can learn more here.
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