Hopes for the Year Ahead--Business owners and employees share their plans for the new year

My hope is:

“I guess, for business overall, it would be to grow and build clientele. Personally, my resolution is to ‘do the right thing,’ in quotes. We have this hoody that says ‘do the right thing’…It’s like our new campaign.”

—Margaret Partyka, General Manager and Buyer for Some Girls Boutique, Colvin Avenue, photographed here with Tina Simeone. In addition to displaying the hoody prominently in the store, the staff at Some Girls is also trying to promote their clothing through fashion shows, help set up fashion events, and donate to local charities, including the recent house fire on Madison Avenue. Partyka says the motto even extends to her health and relationships, explaining that she’s trying to eat better, exercise more and be a better friend.



“To at least create two more jobs in the community, and to expand the business.”

—Kareem Jones, Partner, KJ’s Restaurant.

Jones and his partner John Feeney have been in business for 10 months, and they report that things are going well.


“It sounds corny, but that business would be even better in regards to service and customer satisfaction than last year. To be up-to-date on products and to provide what our customers need. Personally, I would like to continue to learn more and be available to customers to meet their needs for optimal health.”

—Wendy King, co-owner Dean’s Natural Foods, Westgate Plaza








“My New Year’s Resolution was to quit smoking and I’ve done it….I did it for my family and myself. I’m not getting any younger, I’ll be 51 this year.”

—Roger Palmatier, Tattoo artist, Spaulding Tattoo


“I always have hopes for the business. I would like to see more traffic on the avenue. We need more diversity in businesses. We need a grocery store. That would really be nice, someplace where families could shop.”

—Bram Pock, Owner, Blue Note Record Shop