Senator Stabenow Tours Small Businesses in Monroe, Jackson

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow met with small businesses in Monroe and Jackson as part of her small business tour across the state. Stabenow toured Gerdau Steel, Deb’s Flowers & Gifts, and Phoenix Theater in Monroe before touring Grand River Brewery, Chilango’s and Gilbert Chocolates in Jackson. Stabenow also attended a briefing with community officials in Jackson highlighting a federal $50,000 National Endowment for the Arts award for the Glidden Parker Mural project to spur the revitalization of downtown Jackson. Stabenow’s tour has included business stops in the Great Lakes Bay region, West Michigan, the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan.

“It’s great to see all of the thriving small businesses and entrepreneurs in Monroe and Jackson,” said Senator Stabenow. “When we buy local, whether it’s from a neighborhood store, restaurant, or movie theater, it’s a win for our economy.”

“Senator Stabenow appreciates the commitment we have to creating long term relationships with our customers,” said Deb Staelgraeve, owner of Deb’s Flowers and Gifts. “It was an honor to have her in our store because she is a true friend to small businesses.”

“It was a big deal to have Senator Stabenow come to our theater today, especially before the opening,” said Cory Jacobson, owner of Phoenix Theatres. “She understands the kinds of support I need as a small business owner who is looking to grow and expand across Michigan.”

“We are very excited to move our chocolate factory to downtown Jackson starting August 29,” said Brian Krichbaum, owner of Gilbert Chocolates. “It was a pleasure to give Senator Stabenow a sneak peek at how we are turning this old pizzeria into this new production facility and retail chocolate store.”

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