On Friday, over a dozen businesses participated in the Pembroke Parade of Businesses in downtown Pembroke.

“The goal of this event was to let the community know that the Pembroke Business community is here to support them during this tough time. We are all taking precautions to provide services safely and efficiently.” said Dr. Nacondus Gamble, owner of The South Eastern Eye Center.

Community members started at the Pembroke Advanced Communications parking lot and drove from business to business using a business parade map.

Business owners and staffers showed their appreciation to the community by giving them water, cups, Kona Ice, popcorn, M&M’s treats, cotton candy, pralines, lemonade, screen cleaning cloths, lip balm, treat bags, business information and other swag items. Those who stopped by Mears Tech LLC were able to register for a chance to win a Google Home Mini.

Luanne Mears of Mears Tech LLC said, “The Pembroke Parade of Businesses was a way for the local businesses to reconnect with the local community and show them what we have to offer in our small town. We are here to provide support and services to them which will help them remain safe and local. The turnout was great and we were honored to take part in this event.”

Although the businesses are back open, they are taking COVID 19 seriously and are implementing practices to help keep their staff and customers safe.

Sandra Smith, owner of Soo Amayzng Boutique said, “We require everyone to wear a mask, we wipe down our doors constantly and we have free gloves that we offer to our customers.”

Added Mears, “We follow our local Health/CDC guidelines and recommendations for keeping our store safe for our customers with enhanced sanitation, maintaining social distancing, and offering remote support as an option when feasible.”

Businesses and organizations that participated in the parade were The South Eastern Eye Center, Mears Tech, First Bank of Coastal Georgia, The Downtown Development Authority of Pembroke, PAC Fiber, Express Packaging, Bedingfield Pharmacy, Soo Amayzng Boutique, Higgins Place, United Way of Coastal Georgia, Heritage Bank, Bryan County Public Library, Southern Hometown Pharmacy, St. Joseph’s Candler, and CORA Physical Therapy.