Main Street kicking off "Third Thursday" hours

Consumers are going to be getting a few extra hours Thursday to shop at their favorite stores in downtown Blytheville.

Main Street Blytheville executive director Matt Perkins has spent the last few months working with several business owners downtown to develop new ways to bring awareness and new customers to the shops on Main Street.

For many years, a large number of shops on Main Street have closed at 5 p.m., making it difficult for some shoppers to get there before closing. But starting Thursday, at least a dozen stores will be extending their business hours to 7 p.m. as a part of the new "Third Thursday" shopping event that will continue through out the remainder of this year and will hopefully carry on into next year, according to Perkins.

"We're looking forward to the community shopping downtown Blytheville," said Lori Hixson, owner of Me & My Sister Merle Norman. "The extended hours will offer a new level of convenience for our customers."

Businesses participating in "Third Thursday" include Me & My Sister/Merle Norman, Mailboxes & Beyond, Russell's Sales, Hubbard & Hoke, Soul Reflections Photography, Glenda's Hallmark, That Bookstore In Blytheville, Day's Mens Store, Burge's Shoe Center, The Learning Stop, The New York Store and Sisters at the Crossing.

For more information on "Third Thursday" call Perkins at 870-763-2525.

cpinkard@blythevillecourier.com