Keep it Local $25 at a Time
The TV cameras outside the Corner Store Wednesday morning signalled the start of another buy local campaign
but this one will be Statewide…and has a ring to it…25 on 25.
That’s what local Mayors around New York want you thinking and doing. More specifically, on the 25th, which is Saturday, Larchmont Mayor Josh Mandell and Rye Mayor Doug French want you to spend $25 at a local merchant.
"We enjoy a different situation than many towns in the country, Mandell said. "Our busnesses are embedded in the local community. We don’t have to drive 15 minutes to the Mall….We should preserve these businesses by not letting them go dark in a few years."
Rye’s French agreed. "Our number one asset is our downtown…. The recession isn’t over till local customers of Main Street businesses say it’s over."
Mandell was optimistic, citing the opening of two stores down Palmer Avenue, Red Mango and (the relocation of) REcologie. He cited as well the pending revitilization of the Palmer Avenue Business District with a $680,000 grant from the DOT with new sidewalks, lighting and plantings.
The Mayors were joined by Bruce Apar, a local publisher representing the New York Press Association, whose members depend on local businesses for advertising.
"We see the tide turning," Mandell said. Then he turned and walked into the Corner Store and bought a toy.
It might be helpful if the local business owners actually knew about the 25 on 25. I shopped locally in Larchmont today and mentioned it to the store owner who was completely unaware of the effort.