The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is bringing its holiday cheer to Henryetta, with Oklahoma District Director Fernanda Pedraza-Schmitt set to lead the charge. On Friday, Pedraza- Schmitt will join local leaders and business owners to launch the SBA’s Season of Small Business and promote Small Business Saturday, celebrated on Nov. 30.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is bringing its holiday cheer to Henryetta, with Oklahoma District Director Fernanda Pedraza-Schmitt set to lead the charge. On Friday, Pedraza- Schmitt will join local leaders and business owners to launch the SBA’s Season of Small Business and promote Small Business Saturday, celebrated on Nov. 30.
The event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will begin at the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce. The day’s activities include a Henryetta Small Business Tour featuring visits to local businesses that embody the community’s entrepreneurial spirit.
A strong lineup of local leaders and advo- cates will participate in the tour, including Henryetta Chamber President Ashley Morris, Chamber Executive Director Genny Mooney, City Manager David Bullard, Mayor Michael Dickey, Tourism Chair Amber Mordecai and Small Business Showcase Partner Christie Jeffcoat. Joining them are Henryetta Economic Development Trustees Jill Francis and Keith Estes.
The tour will highlight the diverse range of small businesses in Henryetta, with stops including: • Caves Jewelry - Run by Becky Webster and family, offering unique jewelry selections.
• Beth Arabah - Operated by Lavola Case, showcasing local handmade goods.
• Rheba’s Buds and Blooms - Amanda Ellis’ flower shop known for creative floral designs.
• The Shack 2.0 - A popular local eatery owned by XAN Robertson.
• Mona’s Rose of Sharon - Tiffany Lloyd and family will provide lunch for the event.
• Burnett’s Furniture - Home furnishings offered by Mark and Natalie Kirby.
• Mel’s Country Market - A charming marketplace run by Melissa Wilhite.
“Small Business Saturday has become America’s call to action to support the backbone of our economy and heart of our communities - our small businesses,” said Isabel Casillas Guzman, SBA Administrator.
She emphasized the importance of local entrepreneurs, saying, “America’s incredible entrepreneurs create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen our communities, shaping the unique character of neighborhoods across America. This year, as we continue to enjoy an unprecedented Small Business Boom, I encourage everyone to Gift Big and Shop Local by supporting local businesses and the millions of hardworking Americans behind them.”
The Season of Small Business will extend through December, urging shoppers to prioritize small businesses during the holiday season and beyond.
--- Shop Small on Nov. 30 Small Business Saturday, held annually on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, encourages consumers to support local businesses, which serve as the backbone of communities. Every purchase made at a small business has a ripple effect, bolstering local economies and fostering neighborhood connections.
The SBA and Henryetta leaders invite residents to participate in the tour, support local businesses, and make Small Business Saturday a memorable kickoff to the holiday shopping season. For more details, visit the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce.
Remember to “Gift Big and Shop Local” on Nov. 30 to celebrate and support the small business community - county wide!
