Mangano, O'Connell & Chambers Of Commerce Remind Residents
To Shop Local, Buy Local

Merrick, NY - Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano, Nassau County Clerk Maureen O’Connell and the Nassau County Council of Chambers of Commerce held a press conference today reminding Nassau residents of the importance of shopping locally this holiday season, which begins earlier than usual this year.   In addition, County Clerk O’Connell discussed her Veterans Recognition Program.

"I encourage all residents to support their hometown businesses this holiday season, and year-round, as local businesses are the heartbeat of Nassau County’s economy and make our communities stronger and better places to live, work and raise a family,” said County Executive Mangano.  “This year, it is even more important to shop locally, as many small businesses throughout Nassau County are still recovering from Hurricane Sandy.  Now more than ever, our local businesses need our support as they get back up and running.”

There are many benefits to buying locally some of which include:

• Money spent here stays here (keeping local dollars in the economy)
• Jobs and wages (supporting local businesses provides support for the jobs they offer)
• Stronger tax base
• Local business owners invest in our community
• Convenience & Green-Friendly (proximity reduces gas consumption)

Statistics indicate that small businesses employ over half of all private sector employees and that two out of every three new jobs over the past 15 years have been generated by small businesses.

"With local employers contributing to the economic base and connectivity of our local communities, we must help raise awareness about the role they play and promote a business-friendly Nassau that attracts suppliers and distributors in similar industries,” said County Executive Mangano.

County Clerk O’Connell launched the Veterans Recognition Program in conjunction with local businesses as a way to thank the men and women of our armed forces.  Veterans should record their papers in the Clerk’s Office and are then provided a photo identification card which enables them to take advantage of numerous discounts on goods and services being offered by local businesses.  Currently, over 100 local businesses are participating in the program and each business is given a window decal to show their participation. 

"As the Nassau County Clerk, I am honored to provide services to our veterans that at the same time support our local businesses and economy,” said County Clerk O’Connell.  “The backbone to our vibrant communities here in Nassau County is the men and women who served our country and exemplify true public service and the downtowns that support our residents here at home.”

The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce is an umbrella organization acting as a spokesperson for over 40 Chambers of Commerce in Nassau County, New York.  Long Island is home to more than 90,000 businesses grossing more than $100 billion a year. The vast majority of these businesses employ 50 people or less.