Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday on tap

Friday marks the start of the biggest shopping event of the year – Black Friday – and local officials are urging residents to shop local throughout the weekend.

Governor Robert Bentley on Monday signed a proclamation formally declaring Nov. 26 as Small Business Saturday in Alabama. Small Business Saturday is designed to celebrate and support small businesses and the impact they have on Alabama communities.

“Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity for Alabamians to support local businesses on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving,” Bentley said. “Small businesses are the engines of job growth and a vital part of a stimulated economy. By recognizing Small Business Saturday, we can choose to support the small businesses that contribute to our economy and our communities. As we begin the holiday shopping season, I encourage Alabamians to shop at local small businesses throughout Alabama.”

Brewton Mayor Yank Lovelace agreed.

“As the Christmas shopping season gets underway, please remember to shop local,” Lovelace said. “Can you imagine our city without any of its small local businesses? What would our town be without clothing stores, restaurants, curb markets, gift shops, gas stations, thrift stores, florists, hair and nail salons and more? What would be left? What would the streets look like?

“Our city is a strong, vibrant community because of the local businesses that give it a sense of place and family atmosphere,” he said. “Our city grows when we support these places operated by our friends and neighbors.

“I am glad that we have so many choices in Brewton,” he said. “Support as many as you can and have a safe and Merry Christmas.”