Mayor Taveras On Hand For Another Grand Opening In Providence

Dozens of merchants welcome J McLaughlin to Wayland Square

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Mayor Angel Taveras welcomed the owners of J McLaughlin, a shop that is familiar to quaint shopping districts all along the Eastern seaboard, with a festive ribbon-cutting and small reception today. "Today is a good day for small, community-focused businesses in Providence. I am excited to welcome J McLaughlin to Providence and look forward to their success inspiring more success," said Mayor Angel Taveras. "As we strengthen our fiscal ground, we are putting Providence on a path for progress, and from that progress we will grow new jobs and support new businesses. I applaud J McLaughlin for making an investment in Providence and committing themselves to the community."

Members of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, Wayland Square Merchants Association, officers and students from the Sophia Academy and shop owner Carol Hasslinger joined the Mayor as he cut the ceremonial ribbon hailing the official grand opening of the women's and men's weekend wear store. The store is one of 55 owned by the McLaughlin family, and the business typically engages in volunteering in local projects and making donations to area charities. It is the second such store in Rhode Island and the company takes prides in being a true corporate citizen. A portion of today's proceeds went to Sophia Academy, a private school for girls in 5th - 8th grades. It is one of a number of charities the new business supports.