Starting Thursday, Come Out And Shop

Mary Reed, owner of Main Hosiery & Lingerie Shop on Mamaroneck Avenue has been in business for more than 50 years, and while styles and customers have come and gone, the one constant in her five decades of working there is the Chamber of Commerce's annual Sidewalk Sale.

This year's event takes place from June 24-June 26 and promises to offer something for everyone.

"People may not realize this, but Mamaroneck was the one that started sidewalk sales in Westchester," Reed said. " They have been a part of this community ever since I can remember and they are an important part of the summer for a lot of us."

Each year, the Chamber of Commerce allows anyone who is a member to participate for free by setting up tables, displays and merchandise along the sides of Mamaroneck Avenue.  The hope is that this will bring people out to take a gander at some of the stores and merchants that they might not normally buy from.

"We have been doing this for many years and it's an opportunity for merchants to put merchandise on the sidewalks and try to entice customers to buy it," said Manny Enes, a director with the chamber and owner of Robert's Department Store. "We have been doing this for such a long time and it's a great way to get rid of some older merchandise, show off new product and meet lots of customers."

Normally, about one-third of all businesses on the avenue take part in the sidewalk sale, but it's expected that this year will see even more exhibitors putting out their racks, shelves and displays since many have felt the sting of the bad economy.

With the economic climate that we currently live in and the shops in our area closing almost weekly, a sale like this is great for helping out the neighborhood.

"Anything helps. Any type of promotion helps, whether it's good times or bad times, you always want to keep moving forward," Enes said. "The Chamber of Commerce has been sponsoring this forever and they encourage all merchants in Mamaroneck to participate, not just those on the avenue."

This year's sale should also get a boost from the opening night of Mamaroneck Shares, the block party that will be taking place in the same area that night. Although it wasn't planned to coincide, those taking part believe it will be a great thing as everyone will be thinking about coming out for the first day.

"Since Mamaroneck Shares is taking place that evening, the merchants and restaurants are encouraged to put their wares outside all day," Enes said. "We expect people to be around all day shopping and for those who come to Mamaroneck Shares that night and didn't know about the sidewalk sale, they will still have two more days to come and take part."

Reed said that the reason the sale has been so popular over the years is that people can find some great bargains, unique items and wonderful gifts.

"We are very diversified here and we have what people look for in all different price ranges," she said. "The foot traffic starts in the morning and goes until late in the evening, so it's a lot of fun."

As customers come into and out of the shops, they can also expect some great personal service and have a lot of fun.

"Everyone should come out and make a day of it as there are some good opportunities. Kids are going off to camp, parents are making travel arrangements for summer vacations and here's a chance to see what's out there," Enes said. "It's also a chance to meet some good friends on the street while you are shopping."