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| June 11, 2003 | |
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Merchants unify to give Highbridge a greater voice 
By
Denae Brewer Just six months after coming up with an idea to unify as one group, the local merchants signed their incorporation papers which are designed to foster a stronger sense of community pride. The group named the Ogden Avenue Business and Merchants Association consists of 18 stores throughout Highbridge. “We have a strong representation,” said Association President Calvin Jackson. Although Ogden Avenue show prominently in its name, membership is not limited to just that busy corridor. Mr. Jackson pointed out that Marie Minor of Marie Hair Salon on 164 Street just off Summit Avenue has been one of the group’s strongest supporters since the beginning, “It’s a great thing that all of these merchants can come together for the betterment of the community,” Mr. Jackson commented. By incorporating themselves the merchants fell that they can help the community. With the perks incorporation brings—non-profit status garnering a sales tax exemption—Mr. Jackson explained, in a previous interview, how several different scenarios could play out. “We [the storeowners] can work on any number of things that will make Highbridge even better. We can get anti-graffiti paint for the gates. We can hang holiday lights across Ogden in December. We can even throw a block party inn the summer. The possibilities are endless.” Mr. Jackson credits a great deal of the association’s existence to Terry Connelly, a Fordham University grad student who has done volunteer work at Highbridge Community Life Center since December. “She has worked hard in getting this group together,” Mr. Jackson affirmed. “Terry is invaluable and we thank her for all that she’s done.” Ms. Connelly a normally shy person, is humbled by the accolade. “As an intern, this was one of my proudest moments. I was able to give back to the community and help them gain some political empowerment.” Several businesses contributed to the formation of this association. They include: Clean Rite Center, Associated Supermarket, Neighborhood Food Center, Quality Health Drugs, Marie Hair Salon, CK Beauty supply, Valley Express Multi Service, Top Hill Cleaners, VK Pharmacy and many more. .” If you are a business owner in the Highbridge area and would like to learn more about the association and how it can benefit you, contact Calvin Jackson at 718-538-6075.
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| All Contents Copyright 2003 Highbridge Horizon and Highbridge Community Life Center | |