Small Business Saturday had its debut last year. But they are upping the publicity and ante this year. In my opinion – a program like this is a step in the right direction. In Washington they jawbone about supporting small business – but talk is not action. Yet small business, including bricks and mortars have traditionally been the backbone of American exceptionalism and success. They need and deserve our patronage and support.
Our love affair with big-box stores and rock bottom prices has come at a price. Service? What’s that? Knowledge of the product? You’ve got to be kidding me? In addition there have been bankrupt businesses, lost jobs that paid decent wages and less money coming into the community. Consider this: when you spend $100 with a local merchant, $68 returns to the community. When you buy at a national chain – only $43 is returned to the community. Thats a 37% difference in direct economic stimulation.
White Plains NY has quite a few big-box stores, but there are also many local merchants that are open for business on Saturday and have a great deal to offer beyond the same-old, same-old. Here are a few of my picks for the weekend.
Magnotta’s is on Central Ave. in downtown White Plains. Why would I pick a car wash? Because as a real estate agent that has two dogs constantly in my car – I know they do a good job! They are also holding their annual holiday blowout sale which includes savings on full service washes and complete detailing services. I bought my package yesterday and will enjoy the savings.
The Westchester Road Runner has been around for many years. It is located on 179 East Post Road just off of Mamaroneck Ave. I have been shopping there for a long time and you don’t have to be a runner to enjoy their shoes. They have just about the largest selection of running shoes around – anywhere. They are recommended by podiatrists everywhere who have issues with their feet. I need to wear rather bulky orthotics due to a severe case of flat feet and my doctor told me in no uncertain terms that this was the place to go! Right now they offer a woman’s running clinic on Monday night. They have a great selection of outer wear that we all can use outdoor activity.
Located right next door to the Westchester Road Runner – these two stores complement each other. American Terrain tends have a wonderful selection of outer-wear geared to general outdoor activity. Think warm hats, gloves, jackets. Some of which would make great stocking stuffers. Last year I bought some Yak Trax from them and they saved my life (or at least my knees) during the messy, icy, winter we had last year while I shoveled snow and walked the dogs on icy terrain. If you ask, American Terrain Outdoors is offering $10 off a $50 purchase and $25 off a $100 purchase on Small Business Saturday as well as through Christmas Eve. 
Got a young scholar on your short list for presents this year? Want to get the kids a gift that educates as well as entertains. This is a new store at 180 East Post Road and it has unique and educational offerings for kids of all ages. The former scientist in me spied the science kits in chemistry, physics and DNA. They also had some great simple stocking stuffers in the form of colorful pencils, erasers and other small items for the school backpack. There was a lot to take in here. From tots to teens there is plenty of unique inventory that is a far cry from the vanilla big-box toy store fare.
So there you have it – Four local merchants ready to do business with you on Small Business Saturday! Happy Shopping everyone!
© 2011 – Ruthmarie G. Hicks – http://thewestchesterview.com – All rights reserved.
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