Local business owners gathered on Main Street this past Saturday to discuss the economic hurdles currently facing small enterprises in the area. With rising costs and decreased foot traffic, many local establishments are feeling the pinch, leading to urgent calls for community support. Among those in attendance was Marissa Jakevich, owner of Jakevi Grill, who highlighted the importance of shopping local. 'Every dollar spent at a local business circulates within our community, supporting jobs and services that we all rely on,' she said. The meeting included representatives from various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and services, who shared their experiences and strategies for adaptation. They emphasized the need for residents to prioritize local shopping, especially as the holiday season approaches. Many businesses are planning promotional events and collaborations to draw in more customers. In addition to discussions about boosting sales, the group also addressed the role of social media in promoting local businesses. A workshop is planned for next month to help business owners enhance their online presence. Local resident, Tom Meyer, expressed support for the initiative. 'It's important for us to come together during these tough times. I always prefer to shop at local stores and dine at our local restaurants,' he noted. As the community looks forward to the holiday season, the hope is that more residents will heed the call to support local establishments, helping to ensure their survival and the town's economic health.