Open Bathroom, Good Business

At an Obama souvenir shop that opened its doors Sunday on E Street between 6th and 7th streets NW, owner Valerie Cunningham willingly allowed people to come in to warm up and use the bathroom.

"Good morning, good morning," she greeted people as they walked in. "Come on in."

The 40-year-old Tampa businesswoman said she never considered puttin up a "no bathroom" sign like other businesses and condo buildings in the area.

"I'm a Southern girl," she said. "It's about hospitality. That's all I know."

She also knows business. People were scooping up hats and t-shirts. Her designs, which will be at the makeshift boutique through Sunday, are powerful in their simplicity, reading "CHANGE," "DESTINY," or "44" in sequins on black or white t-shirts. Others read, "Mr. President" and "I BELIEVE."

She said her company has sold about 10,000 units, mostly T-shirts, around the country since September.

By Christopher Dean Hopkins  |  January 20, 2009; 8:32 AM ET  | Category:  Souvenirs
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Posted by: las100 | January 20, 2009 11:33 AM | Report abuse

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