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Politics & Government

Bramnick Talks Business

Bramnick says local businesses necessary for a town to prosper, cites New Providence as a town with a growing small business economy.

Assemblyman Jon Bramnick has a special place in his heart for small businesses. He used to work at his dad’s business in Plainfield before it was pushed out by “big box stores,” he said.

That’s why Bramnick, the assembly minority leader in the state legislature, came out to The Prestige Diner in New Providence this morning, along with about 20 business owners and members of the public to discuss the business climate in the borough and how to help local stores.

Bramnick represents 16 towns in Union, Morris and Somerset counties, including New Providence.

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Bramnick told stories about his dad’s store, and the amount of work that goes into running a business without a corporate background.

He said a town’s identity lies with the local economy, and that’s why he hosted the forum today. He hopes to see local businesses thrive despite the economic downturn, and expects some to excel as the economy begins to look up.

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“I think downtown has a certain charm to it. I would rather walk downtown from store to store then go to the mall of big box stores.”

His support of local stores garnered support from business owners, including Al Morgan, who said that Bramnick is open to ideas on how to better the areas that he covers, including how to help stores grow.

“Jon Bramnick represents all of us to the best of his ability,” he said. “I don’t know if I could do it. I know you have ideas and so does the other side, but I also know, your door is always open to everyone.”

Bramnick spent some time at the beginning by joking around with Prestige Diner owner, Jimmy Vardas, asking what the specials of the day are. Vardas joked how much was he willing to spend.

“Today the special of the day is the Jon Bramnick Salad. It’s $1.00 and the tax is included. But everyday, the customer is the special,” Vardas said.

As the conversation became a bit more serious, Vardas said, “Businesses come and stay in New Providence.” To which Bramnick responded, “That’s what makes New Providence and America so great.”

During the question and answer session, resident Herb Waddell asked what he thought of Governor Chris Christie. Bramnick didn’t even take a breath before responding with a glowing report.

“Chris Christie is almost magical. His abilities are off the charts,” he said. “I’m shocked everyday by how good he is. When he gives his state of the state speech, I can’t stop smiling. I’m not saying that because I’m a republican either.”

Cindy Reis, the marketing and public relations director of the New Providence Business Community said the borough appreciates that Bramnick was able to take time out of his schedule to support local businesses.

"He understands that small businesses support local schools, charities, youth organizations, and other civic causes.”

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