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Small stores survive in tough retail market By Linda Tishler Levinson
As online shopping becomes increasingly popular, national retailers are shifting their business model. They are closing brick-and-mortar locations and heavily promoting their websites. Nonetheless, local business leaders feel the future of retail stores in north central Connecticut remains bright. Good shopping, some say, comes in smaller packages. “Unfortunately, Enfield has fallen victim” to a number of closings by national chains, said Mike Vezzola, executive director of the North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce, mentioning national chain stores like Sears, Macy’s and Bob’s. Yet, he remains positive about the future of retail, since Enfield hasn’t felt much impact otherwise. Of smaller, local retailers, he said, “We still think those are very vibrant.” “You might even see a reverse factor there,” said Candice Corcione, executive director of the Tolland County Chamber of Commerce. “You like to do business
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Groundbreaking at Camp Hartell
Local, federal and other state dignitaries, Connecticut National Guard officials and members of the Army National Guard broke ground for the 14th Civil Support Team (CST) Readiness Center at Camp Hartell in Windsor Locks. The 23,759 square foot Ready Building will support 22 full-time personnel of the 14th Civil Support Team. The facility received $11 million in federal funding and another $500,000 in state funding. The facility, which will include an operations center, classroom, locker rooms, ready bays for vehicles, and administrative offices, is planned to be completed in the spring of 2018. From left, Windsor Locks First Selectman Chris Kervick, Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman, Major General Thad Martin, Congressman Joe Courtney, State Rep. Tami Zawistowski (R-61), and State Rep. Scott Storms (R-60) dig in.
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