On May 7, during National Small Business Week, U.S. Rep. Sean Casten (D–IL) visited several businesses along the 95th Street corridor to learn more about the local business community, hear directly from business owners, and discuss ways to support small businesses.
The visit began at Southtown Health Foods with owner Emil Mahler. A longtime staple on 95th Street, Southtown Health Foods has served the community for decades by providing organic foods, vitamins, supplements, juices, and wellness products. During the visit, Rep. Casten even tried one of Southtown’s well-known ABC juices (made with apples, beets, and carrots). Emil and Rep.Casten discussed challenges facing health-focused retailers, including the limitations surrounding the use of FSA and HSA funds for vitamins and supplements, even when recommended for wellness and preventative health. They also discussed credit card swipe fees and the impact these rising costs continue to have on small businesses.
Next, the group visited Live and Believe Fitness, where owners Morgan Martin and Mike Martin shared the evolution of their business and how they have adapted their space to combine fitness classes and smoothie offerings under one roof. The Martins also discussed their commitment to youth programming through the flag football league they operate for young people on Chicago’s South Side.
The final stop was Essential Creations, where owner Sandtricia Strickland and her father, Ottis, welcomed the group into their production space. Essential Creations has been helping businesses bring their brands to life for 26 years through custom promotional products, apparel, and branded merchandise. Sandtricia and Ottis demonstrated several of their machines and shared insight into the wide variety of products they create for businesses, organizations, and events throughout the region.
The visit concluded with lunch at Top Notch Beefburgers, giving business owners and community leaders additional time to continue conversations about supporting local businesses and strengthening the 95th Street corridor. Pete Coccaro of Beverly Hills Garage and Josh Mercer of Allstate — both longtime 95th Street business owners — also joined the group for lunch and discussion.
The 95th Street Business Association appreciated the opportunity to showcase several outstanding local businesses and highlight the important role small businesses play in our community.