“Holidays by the Sea” Initiative to Kick-Off with a Press Conference

NEWPORT, RI (November 18, 2016) – The Newport County Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Small Business Administration will host a joint press conference Tuesday, November 22nd at 10 a.m. at Washington Square Park to kick-off the “Holidays by the Sea” and Shop Small Saturday initiatives. In attendance will be: U.S Senator Jack Reed; U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse; U.S. Congressman David Cicilline; Governor Gina Raimondo; Lt. Governor Daniel McKee; Senate President M. Teresa Paiva-Weed; Representative Marvin Abney; Small Business Administration RI District Director Mark Hayward and Chamber Executive Director Erin Donovan-Boyle. Immediately following remarks, there will be a walking tour of Broadway, visiting many local restaurants and retailers.

“Holidays by the Sea” will officially kick-off on November 25th and run through December 31st. Local merchants will decorate their shops with white lights and offer special discounts and promotions, including weekly shopping spree raffles. Two winners will be selected each Friday beginning December 2nd. Shoppers are encouraged to visit retailers weekly for additional chances to win.

“Buying local strengthens the local economy while also supporting community priorities such as schools, roads and public safety. Our community is fortunate to have an abundance of unique local shops in which to find that special gift. Newport is the perfect place to check off our Christmas lists,” says President of the Senate M. Teresa Paiva Weed.

“Small business is hugely impactful to not only our state’s economy but to our communities as well,” said SBA District Director Mark S. Hayward, “95.8% of employers in Rhode Island are small businesses, these are your friends, your family, and your neighbors and by shopping small you are sending a message that we are with you, and we support you” he added.

As the holiday season gets underway, the Chamber of Commerce and local merchants encourage everyone to “Think Local” not just about shopping but as a mindset to support and invest in all aspects of local communities. Please visit our website, HolidaysbytheSeaNewport.com, to view a list of all participating retailers.

The Chamber has once again partnered with “Christmas in Newport” to promote holiday events, many of which occur at shops and businesses throughout the region. Visit their website at ChristmasInNewport.org for full event information.

ABOUT THE NEWPORT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Newport County Chamber of Commerce is one of the state’s largest business advocacy organizations. With over 1,100 members representing over 50,000 employees, the Newport County Chamber’s goal is to find solutions for quality jobs, quality growth and quality of life. As a trusted and reliable source of information for nearly 100 years, the Newport County Chamber connects members with success while encouraging the development of the community.

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