We are proud to announce that Ben Jackson has been named the president of the Freeport Chamber of Commerce. A life-long Freeporter, who has been growing Ben’s General Contracting in the incorporated village for over 40 years, Ben was no doubt an ideal choice to head up the chamber for the current term. Ben’s very excited to do all that he can to help Freeport’s community through the Covid pandemic.
Ben’s Address to the Freeport Chamber of Commerce
In Freeport, and just about everywhere else, 2021 proved a challenging year. The lingering effects of the global pandemic set our local businesses back. Freeport’s business community, however, our mayor and our Chamber of Commerce have time and again met these challenges head on.
With considerable resolve, our local business community rose to face the new realities of 2021. While stores and restaurants had to operate under precautionary guidelines, our small businesses adapted. Our restaurants began serving customers outside, and stepped up delivery and take-out operations. While Freeport’s stores had to limit the number of customers they serve in-person, they opened their doors just the same, often finding alternative ways to serve their clientele.
None of this happened in a vacuum. Freeport’s Mayor Kennedy and our board of trustees gave their approval for our local businesses to begin serving in parking lots and tented areas. Meanwhile, throughout this challenging time, the Freeport Chamber of Commerce has endeavored to empower our local businesses whenever and wherever possible. As a team we stuck together. What used to be dinners we would share at a local restaurant became takeout from the same restaurant and a Zoom meeting. What’s more, we provided talks and information sessions on the loans and funds available to our village’s small business owners; and undoubtedly due to the Chambers efforts, more Freeporters have begun to shop locally.
If anything we’d ask our fellow Freeporters to do just that. Window shop at one of Freeport’s many local stores and boutiques. Stroll the Nautical Mile, and while you’re there, enjoy a dinner at one of its many fine restaurants. Shopping in our village, you are likely to come across the jewel that is the new Moxy Rigby hotel. While walking the Mile, you will likely notice both a large capacity catering hall and yet another premium hotel well under construction.
No doubt challenges remain. Considering, however, the steadfastness of our local business community, the dedication of our local officials, and the resolve of Freeport’s Chamber of Commerce, the rejuvenation of Freeport’s business community can only continue.
