FromtheEditor
July marks the fourth month in a row that sales tax collections were down (slightly) in the city. While the drops are slight, the support for local businesses is needed just as much (if not more) than ever and Dublin business owners are making it really easy.
I’ve visited several in the last few weeks picking up stuff for myself and gifts as many have sales to ‘beat the heat.’
Wandering into Blessings will reveal everything is at least 10% off for their Christmas in July sale. Some items are marked down as much as 50%. With clothing, accessories, tech, cookware, mugs, games, toys and more, the industrious could actually find some great Christmas, birthday and everyday gifts at great discounts.
Across the street, Things Celtics has discounts for the first customer of the day and regulars sales on items like jewelry, mugs, accessories and more. Purchases also earn points for benefits.
Bargain Furniture has sales often for their qualitymade tables, dressers, beds, chairs and more.
Interior Dimensions is offering sizable discounts on their wide selection of home furnishings, jewelry and clothing this month to rewards customers for braving the high temperatures and coming through the doors.
Need a drink or snack while wandering downtown? Blackjack’s can sate a coffee fix in the morning or from 2-5 p.m. with the discounted lattes in ‘Happy Hour.’ Lucky Nutrition near the Dublin Historical Museum also has refreshing and healthy shakes and teas for some extra energy.
Sweet treats can also be found at Hot-Tempered Chocolates in the Blackjack Office Center by Blessings and some tasty, unique sandwiches can be found at Grafton Market around the corner from the Hogan Museum.
Don’t forget fresh meat at Thompson’s Custom Processing and groceries at Brookshire Brothers while you’re out. And check out Dublin’s mainstays of CWJC Will Do Good Thrift Store, Golden Butterfly and Dublin Floral.
There are also worthwhile finds in the businesses further down Blackjack and Patrick and an increasing variety of places to eat.
It’s disheartening that we lost a couple of businesses recently as Rusty Rose has a closing sale and Austin Street Fabrics announced it is moving to Comanche. There are lots of factors leading to drops in sales tax collections: comparing values to months on the rise for the last couple of years, weather making people stay inside, rising cost of living leading to less excess spending, etc.
All these factors are hard on everybody including our local merchants. I encourage everyone to remember their hometown first when they need something. You’d be surprised what you can buy nearby while supporting your neighbor and keeping sales tax dollars in the community to benefit the growth of business and help fund community improvements.
— Paul Gaudette is the Managing Editor for The Dublin Citizen and can be reached via email at publisher@ dublincitizen. com.