The after effects of our Great Recession through the eyes of a small business owner
Through the eyes of a small business owner in New York’s Upper East Side, she sees, first hand, the recession’s impact on an unlikely American neighborhood.
The video, produced by Frontline, is called Close To Home. The program aired on PBS October 28, 2009.
The cameras are set up in a hair salon that Deborah Boles, as the owner and sole hairdresser, started in 1985.
In such an intimate space Deborah has come to know well the surprisingly diverse clientele — from athletic trainers and housewives to high-end bankers, actors and opera singers.
Despite expectations that this neighborhood is a secure bastion of privilege, these days, when clients get in the chair, they offer a window into the country in recession: Some are broke, others don’t have a plan, and they’re all looking to commiserate.
You’ll find the stories insightful, moving and disturbing.
Q: How have you and your customer base been affected by current economic conditions?
Q: What solutions are keeping you in business?
Share your thoughts.