“District 1’s villages and downtown shopping areas offer a wonderful alternative to the crowded malls,” said Legislator Abrahams. “It’s in our local shops where people discover unique gifts, get personalized service, and also support neighborhood businesses.”

Legislator Abrahams added, “Shopping on your local main street is a different shopping experience. It is vitally important that we support our downtowns because their economic survival keeps communities alive and growing.”

Chambers of Commerce from more than 20 areas were represented at a recent press conference held in Mineola. The chambers represented included: the Hewlett Business Association, Westbury, Hempstead, Bellmore, Wantagh, Freeport, Syosset, Residents for a More Beautiful Syosset , Plainview-Old Bethpage, Oyster Bay, Roosevelt, Manhasset, Massapequa, Farmingdale, and others. Many of the local business owners also displayed a variety of distinctive and beautiful gifts available in their stores.

“Many of Long Island’s downtown shopping communities have histories dating back hundreds of years,” said Kristen Matejka, director of marketing and communications at the Long Island Convention and Visitors Bureau. “They offer visitors a shopping experience that includes not only one-of-a-kind retail stores, but restaurants, art galleries, antique shops, museums, and historical attractions, making for a rich shopping experience.”

“This is an important time of the year and, we must support our local downtowns,” said Richard M. Bivone, President of the Nassau Council Chambers of Commerce. “These business owners live and pay taxes in Nassau County. Their profits stay local and are the backbone of our local economy.”