Senator Whitehouse, Mayor Taveras Plan Walking Tour of Providence Business Districts

PROVIDENCE - U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Mayor Angel Taveras will spend Monday morning visiting businesses in neighborhoods throughout the City.

Taveras and Whitehouse will take a walking tour of businesses on Hope Street, Chalkstone Avenue and Broad Street to meet directly with local business owners, discuss the challenges and opportunities they face, and hear suggestions on new policies and programs to support small businesses in Providence.

"Small businesses are the engine of our economy, but many still struggle in the wake of the recession," said Senator Whitehouse. "As I work to provide local businesses with the support they need to succeed and grow, I look forward to joining Mayor Taveras and hearing ideas from these Providence business owners."

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of Providence's economy. They affect the lives of families living in every neighborhood. As leaders it is our responsibility to work closely with small business owners to identify ways to help them grow and create jobs," said Mayor Taveras.

WHO: U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and Providence Mayor Angel Taveras

WHAT: Tour of neighborhood businesses

WHEN: Monday, January 31, 2011

TIMES and LOCATIONS:

• 9:15 -10AM Hope Street tour led by Nanda Head of Nanda Interiors, and Asher Schofield of Frog and Toad

• 10- 10:45AM Chalkstone Avenue tour led by Lisa Mattiello of Pranzi Catering.

• 10:45 - 12PM Broad Street tour led by Marilyn Cepeda of Quisqueya in Action.