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New Business Brings New Opportunities

By Ryan Kruger

CAIRO -- There are glimmers of hope in this tough economy. One of them is in Alexander County where a business is expanding. Owner Gabrielle Harris says it's the first time something like this has happened in that community in a decade.

"Trying to give people an opportunity to work, create jobs, give people the opportunity to empower themselves," said Harris, who co-owns the store with his wife LaWanda.

The couple started G & L Clothing five years ago out of their living room. Since then they've expanded three times. Construction wrapped up in time for the Labor Day Weekend.

Harris says it takes commitment and professionalism to run a business. But a little help can go a long way.

In front of the store is a sign that says it was partially funded by the Southern Illinois Delta Empowerment Zone, an organization that gives government grants to small start up companies in communities to help create jobs.

Harris says more grants like that are needed to give entrepreneurs a chance to succeed.

"Starting with small businesses then moving toward larger businesses because I think that a lot of times communities like ourselves want to try to attract the larger businesses, you gotta start with the small businesses," said Harris.

The small business employs five people. Jobs that are hard to come by in Cairo.