We know the holiday sales at big-name retailers in Lakewood, Signal Hill and Cerritos can be tempting, especially in an economy when folks are tightening their proverbial belts to the last notch.
But Long Beach city and business folks are hoping for the granting of this holiday wish - that residents buy their gifts at Long Beach businesses, particularly small businesses.
The city and its four retail Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) today announced the kick-off of "Shop Local, Shop Long Beach," a campaign encouraging residents to shop at Long Beach retailers for the holidays.
Those included in the campaign are BIDs representing 4th Street, Belmont Shore, Bixby Knolls and Downtown Long Beach.
"The "Shop Local, Shop Long Beach" campaign reminds Long Beach residents that supporting our retailers is very, very critical," City Manager Pat West said in a statement. "We know the national economy may make it a slow holiday shopping period, and we'd like everyone in Long Beach to 'Shop Local, Shop Long Beach' to make sure our retail dollars are spent in the City. Retail sales create jobs, and retail sales tax dollars provide a major source of City funding."
Read more about the campaign in Wednesday's Press-Telegram.
But Long Beach city and business folks are hoping for the granting of this holiday wish - that residents buy their gifts at Long Beach businesses, particularly small businesses.
The city and its four retail Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) today announced the kick-off of "Shop Local, Shop Long Beach," a campaign encouraging residents to shop at Long Beach retailers for the holidays.
Those included in the campaign are BIDs representing 4th Street, Belmont Shore, Bixby Knolls and Downtown Long Beach.
"The "Shop Local, Shop Long Beach" campaign reminds Long Beach residents that supporting our retailers is very, very critical," City Manager Pat West said in a statement. "We know the national economy may make it a slow holiday shopping period, and we'd like everyone in Long Beach to 'Shop Local, Shop Long Beach' to make sure our retail dollars are spent in the City. Retail sales create jobs, and retail sales tax dollars provide a major source of City funding."
Read more about the campaign in Wednesday's Press-Telegram.
Paul Eakins reports on Long Beach City Hall, and local and regional
politics. A newcomer to the Press-
Kris Hanson reports on the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles,
covering environmental issues, economic triumphs and
pitfalls and trade trends of America’s largest port.
He also writes a weekly column “On The Waterfront”,
appearing Tuesdays, and also produces an occassional video
and column titled “On The Job,” which follows the hard-working
men and women who keep Southern California’s economy humming.
Karen Robes Meeks came to work for the Press-
I am pleased to hear that there is a joint effort in reminding our fine residents the importance of shopping locally. Small businesses are truly the foundation of our community. Whether it be jobs offered, donations given out,services given, etc. small businesses are what defines a community and gives the community the stability that is needed.
Due to the changing economic realities of the last numerous years, small businesses have been given the opportunity to enhance their offerings as well as become competitive. "Price-per-pound", the offerings of small businesses tends to be at least competitive with the chain stores,.. yet has so much more to offer the community.
So, neighbors,... let's all make an effort to do what is best for our community !!
Ken Rabin
Morrys of Naples