Shopping, Shopping and More Shopping

On Saturday, nestled between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, American Express OPEN and Mayor Bloomberg will unite to promote 'Small Business Saturday' in attempt to generate consumer traffic for America's small businesses.

According to the website, "The goal of 'Small Business Saturday' is to inspire you to support the local small businesses that mean the most to you."

"For every year over the last decade, 60 to 80 percent of new jobs were generated by small businesses", says the Small Business Administration. "Small businesses employ half of all private sector employees."

'Small Business Saturday' is a national endeavor supported by agencies in cities
countrywide. Along with New York City -- Boston, San Francisco, Washington DC and Los Angeles are also promoting the latest shopping day.

"I think it's pretty great because small businesses definitely need the help," says
Barbara Leach-Lugo, owner of Diva Desires on Washington Avenue who is offering
10 percent off on purchases of $25 or more.

"Advertising is so expensive that it's difficult to compete with the Wal-Marts and Targets," said Nicole Walters, of the Divine Connections Hair Spa on Washington Avenue. 

"I think it's a good idea especially for [Prospect Heights]," said Walters. "We need to bring more people to the area."

Since this year is the inaugural 'Small Business Saturday', awareness is still an issue.
While a handful of neighborhood businesses are participating in 'Small Business
Saturday', most were unaware of the initiative.

"It's an interesting concept. I just haven't heard of it," said Jerry Walsh, owner of
Mayday Hardware. "I'm disappointed I didn't know about it sooner because it's
something that is beneficial to all -- the businesses and the customers."

Some neighborhood establishments heard about 'Small Business Saturday' but did not know how to get involved.

"I didn't know how to [participate]", says Sara Shuman of Shambhala Yoga & Dance
Center. "I do enjoy participating in more locally supported initiatives."

Small Business Saturday advises those interested in participating to 'Like' them on its Facebook page and to patronize local, independently owned establishments in the neighborhood.

Also, American Express cardholders are eligible to earn a $25 statement credit on any purchase of $25 or more made at locally owned businesses tomorrow.

For more information on 'Small Business Saturday', visit their website.