(Atlantic, IA) – The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Atlantic has been recognized as a Neighborhood Champion for the 12th year in a row by American Express. Atlantic will participate in the 15th Annual Small Business Saturday this Saturday to support local small businesses.

“We’re proud to work alongside our business community to bring special activities and incentives to Small Business Saturday,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a day dedicated to celebrating the businesses that make Atlantic such a strong and unique place to shop.”

Founded by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday® is a day to celebrate the small businesses that help support communities nationwide. American Express created the Neighborhood Champion Program to rally local organizations and encourage participation in Shop Small® events across the country.

American Express recognizes communities that demonstrate strong engagement. Atlantic’s ongoing Shop Local Initiative, presented by First Whitney Bank & Trust, along with years of steady community support, has helped Atlantic consistently achieve this national recognition.

“This recognition highlights the incredible teamwork within our community,” Beschorner added. “Our businesses show up for Atlantic every day, and Small Business Saturday is a great reminder of how much impact we make when we show up for them in return.”

This year, the Chamber is also introducing the new Chestnut Street Tote Program. Beginning on Small Business Saturday, shoppers can purchase a limited-edition Chestnut Street tote bag exclusively at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. The bag features the Chestnut Street ornament and includes a tag listing participating businesses offering special promotions for tote users. Only 85 totes will be available, making this a limited holiday collectible that encourages shoppers to explore and support businesses across Atlantic.

November 29th marks Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting the local businesses that create jobs, strengthen the economy, and help preserve neighborhoods. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by the Chamber from 10 AM to 1 PM to purchase a Chestnut Street tote, pick up AtlanticCash, browse holiday bundles, and learn about community-wide promotions.

Small business owners can learn more about participating in Small Business Saturday and download free marketing materials at www.shopsmall.com. Consumers can visit www.atlanticiowa.com to find deals, participating merchants, and more information about the Chestnut Street Tote Program.

Small Business Saturday is presented by First Whitney Bank & Trust.