The Heights celebrates independent businesses

The Heights Independent Business Alliance (HiBA), a member of the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA), has declared the week of July 1-7, 2011, Independents Week.

“This is a time to reflect on the importance of economic democracy and community self-determination by celebrating the nation’s locally owned independent businesses and the stake each citizen has in shaping their home town’s future,” said AMIBA director Jennifer Rockne. 

Residents of the Heights, and the region, are invited to celebrate by joining in the activities and in-store promotions offered by participating HiBA member businesses.

“HiBA is joining other local alliances and partner organizations nationwide to celebrate our great local independent businesses, which exemplify the uniqueness of Cleveland Heights and University Heights,” said Alex Quintana, owner of Quintana's Barbershop and Dream Spa, and cofounder of HiBA. “We have a reason to celebrate. These friends and neighbors embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and individuality in our community. Our citizens are integral to ensuring we keep these businesses that help define who we are, and contribute to our sense of place.”

The HiBA is affiliated with the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) and is part of a growing national movement of communities rallying to support their independent businesses, take control of their local economies, and reverse the trend of chains and big boxes displacing locally owned businesses.

To receive newsletters and updates about Independents Week and other HiBA initiatives and specials, community members are encouraged to “Take the Pledge to Buy Local/Buy Independent Whenever Possible” at www.shopHiBA.org

HiBA was launched October 2010 with the mission of building a vital local economy based on independent, locally owned businesses; and helping local entrepreneurs to thrive by uniting and educating the public about the benefits of recycling their money within the community. Currently, HiBA boasts a membership of about 45 independent businesses in Cleveland Heights and University Heights. The fee for business membership is $100 a year, with other membership levels available for individuals and nonprofit organizations.

More information about the Independents Week schedule of events is available online at the HiBA website, www.shopHiBA.org

Megan Johnson

Megan Johnson is the interim executive director of the Heights Independent Business Alliance.
 

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Volume 4, Issue 7, Posted 10:47 AM, 06.28.2011