National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day

March 29 is a special day of the year that recognizes the millions of hard working men and women who own small businesses. It's National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day, an annual "holiday" that celebrates the great American entrepreneurial spirit.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day also serves as a reminder to support small business owners and help keep Main Street in business. Not only do mom and pop businesses help our economy work, they help keep Americans working! In fact, more than 60 percent of all new jobs are created by small businesses. And according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there were more than 27 million small businesses in America in 2011.

Rick Segel is credited as creating the event in honor of his parents who were successful business owners of a hat shop business from 1939 until 1997. Segel, an International retail expert, is also the author of several books on business including the "Retail Business Kit for Dummies."

Whether it's a business that has been in the family for generations or is a brand new start-up, being a business owner is a dream-come-true for many Americans and consumer support is paramount to their success. Whether you are looking for a fabulous meal, a night on the town or a personalized service, stop by your local mom and pop store today and help keep America working!