Behrens Pharmacy in Clinton Hill

Mohammad Rahman has been working at Behren’s Pharmacy in Clinton Hill for decades. He is one of the millions of workers employed at a small business, the lifeblood of the American economy (PDF).  And to New Yorkers, and Green Point and Clinton Hill, Brooklyn residents in particular, small businesses are a way of life. The threat of their disappearance is enough to incite protest, as seen with the Atlantic Yards development.

But, according to Rahman and workers at other businesses in the neighborhood the deadliest small business killer is less tangible than the Atlantic Yards and local residents have less control over it’s operation: it’s the American economy.

Rahman, standing behind the pharmacy counter waiting for customers said business was very slow, but doesn’t blame people for not shopping locally.

Unless people have a disposable income – unless they have money in their pocket, this economy can’t work…people don’t have the jobs, how will they spend the money?

Rahman said local residents are shopping online at places that don’t have the overhead that a local store like Behren’s does.

Down the street at the cafe Tillies of Brooklyn barista Khephran Riddick echoed Rahman’s sentiment.

“It’s been a little show…It’s tough to find jobs out here.”

Still, small businesses seem to be holding on, despite the continued economic downturn.

Where do you fit in?

If you are a small business owner in Fort Greene or Clinton Hill:

How has your business been affected by the ecomonic downturn?

And residents:

Are you still shopping locally and eating out?

Please respond in the comments.