For the last couple of months and for the next couple of months, we have the pleasure of conducting numerous ribbon cuttings. These ribbon cuttings have celebrated businesses that are new or are new to Freeport and Stephenson County, relocated or expanded businesses, completed renovations, and more.
For those who aren’t familiar, ribbon cuttings are ceremonies at which the Greater Freeport Partnership, the Partnership Ambassadors, the City of Freeport and Stephenson County celebrate the opening of a new business or the relocation or expansion of an existing business. Ribbon cuttings have historically been used to celebrate the completion of infrastructure projects or business openings for more than 125 years, although some historians date them back to ancient Rome!
Locally, businesses often comment that their ribbon cutting makes them feel welcomed by the community and it marks an important step in opening their business. While these are important reasons for conducting ribbon cuttings, it is also an opportunity for the community to celebrate growth in its business community and progress in community development.
While the red ribbon and the big scissors are ceremonial, they are a symbol of dreams realized, of growth accomplished, and of a community celebrating those businesses who have chosen to realize those dreams in Freeport and Stephenson County.
We publish upcoming ribbon cuttings in our newsletter. You are always welcome to join us at these brief but significant events and we encourage you to visit and congratulate those who have had ribbon cuttings. We have recently had ribbon cuttings celebrating the opening of Grasshopper’s Bar & Grill, Jersey Mike’s Subs, and King’s Bar and Grill. In the next few weeks, we have ribbon cuttings scheduled for the relocation of Twice As Nice Consignments, and the openings of First Community Credit Union, AutoSmart, and Castor Health Institute.
If you have recently opened your business or completed a significant expansion or renovation, please contact us about scheduling your ribbon cutting. We want to promote your achievement and help you celebrate your milestone!
Bill Clow is the Business Engagement Director for the Greater Freeport Partnership. He can be reached at bclow@greaterfreeport.com or 815-233-1353
