After several months of slow business growth around town, there now appears to be a flurry of new retail shops either open, or soon to open, on and around the square in downtown Bainbridge, filling some of the vacant storefronts.

In addition to the recently opened Gusie’s Consignment Shop at 320 E. Water St., which celebrated its ribbon cutting last week, there is a new children’s consignment shop being planned by Tina McMillan and Laura Johnson, both of Climax, at a Bainbridge location yet to be announced. They are currently accepting children’s articles on consignment and invite callers seeking more information to contact them at 220-6118 or 220-6969.

Also, a few weeks away from opening is Captain Jack’s Seafood, Steaks and Oyster Bar, which will fill the spaces formerly occupied by Cornwall’s and Carol & Company Salon on East Water Street once renovations are complete. The owner is Margie Valencia.

The Dragonfly

A furniture consignment and gift shop opened this week on the square at 110 E. Broughton St., the space formerly occupied by The Book Nook.

Owner and operator Emily Mills said she has always dreamed of having her own shop. She decided to name it Dragonfly after her favorite “critter.” The dragonfly theme is carried throughout the store on various decorative items.

In addition to being a consignment shop for a mixture of old and new quality furniture and home décor, the business will be offering the largest bulk candy selection in town, patterned after the old penny candy shops of bygone days.

Another unique feature offered will be the “build your own gift basket” from stock displayed in the store. There are gifts for men, women and children.

Mills is a registered nurse employed at Miller County Hospital. Her mother, Jill Brown, and sister, Lindsay Chambless, will be helping her keep the store open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A grand opening is being planned for Aug. 4 at 10 a.m.

Paw Paw’s Dogs

Renovation construction work is progressing at 109 N. West St. on the square, preparatory to the opening of a new sandwich shop by D.J. and Michael Walden of Whigham.

Boasting a chili pepper red front and interior, the shop will feature hot dogs, burgers, hot wings, chicken strips, homemade chili, soups and salads.

Michael Walden gained experience in the food business over the last three years serving as manager of Jackson Hot Dogs in Cairo, a business with three locations including Pelham and Whigham.

Walden said Paw Paw’s will be a family owned and operated business with his mother, D.J., and wife, Lee Ann, playing key roles.

The business is targeted to open in August once renovations are complete.

A big sports fan, Walden wants to carry the local sports history theme out through photos and sports memorabilia displayed on the walls. He also plans discounts for emergency response personnel.