Black Friday raffle could give some lucky winners some extra Christmas cash

ROCHESTER - Rochester Main Street is holding a Shop Small Raffle to support locally owned businesses and spur sales in the downtown.

According to Main Street president Jeff Bisson, raffle winners will receive gift certificates to the downtown business of their choice. First prize is $2,000, second prize is $500, and third place is $250.

"To be fair to the businesses, we are allowing raffle winners to select gift cards to the downtown businesses of their choice," said Bisson. "The raffle is a great way to celebrate Shop Small Saturday and encourage shoppers and diners to support our downtown establishments."

Shop Small Saturday is a national movement to support small businesses on the Saturday following Black Friday. Bisson says winners will be drawn in November, on Shop Small Saturday, well before the holiday shopping rush.

"Black Friday and Shop Small Saturday are the unofficial start to the holiday shopping season," said Bisson. "We encourage the public to take a chance on our raffle, support our efforts to enhance the downtown area, and get a head start on their shopping."

Bisson said a portion of the raffle proceeds will directly support the organization's efforts in the downtown.

"If you've never heard of the Main Street program, or you'd like to know more about what we do, visit our website." he said. "Our volunteers work throughout the year to create projects and events that encourage a more vibrant downtown."

Raffle tickets are $25 and there is no limit to how many tickets one person can purchase. Tickets can be purchased in person at Skeletone Records and Cabana Salon & Tanning. They are also available online at www.rochestermainstreet.org. If a business is interested in selling tickets, contact rochesternhmainstreet@gmail.com.