Dream of salon/
home now real
By Linda Lemmon
Town Crier Editor
PUTNAM — Jackie Salter had a dream for a long time — to open her own salon. Not only that, she envisioned a salon that was comfortable, peaceful. She wanted the space to feel like home.
And the town of Putnam and the Putnam Business Association welcomed her to her “Putnam home” Sept. 7 with a ribbon cutting at her own salon, Boho Beauty Bar.
Slater graduated at the top of her class from Norwich Tech in 2011 and had been renting a chair in Danielson. But, she said, she had always wanted to have her own salon. “I had big dreams,” she said.
And Dennis Baker, her partner in life and owner of Accurate Builders of New England, promised he would create that for her. And Sept. 7, the dream became a reality.
Slater said the building was purchased in July and had a soft opening in August.
Putnam Selectman J. Scott Pempek represented the town and welcomed the new business, saying “I think you’ll find that Putnam is a great place to work, live, shop and grow. We wish you the most success, happiness and welcome to Putnam.”
Mike Bogdanski, vice chair of the town’s Economic Development Commission, also welcomed Boho to Putnam. “What brings this town together are the great people and we welcome you to become some of our new friends and neighbors.” He added, “Being an entrepreneur is never easy but we know you’re off to a great start. So welcome and congratulations.”
Putnam Business Association President Attorney Kate Cerrone presented the business with a PBA plaque and said: “Owning her own salon seemed like a dream that might never be possible. But as we stand here today, we see how that dream has been built — literally — through love, perseverance, and family support.”
She added that Baker promised “’I’m going to build you a salon someday’ and here we are – promise kept.”  With the help of his company and “with tireless dedication from this family, they transformed 182 Providence Street into this beautiful new home for Jackie’s talent and artistry. Jackie, your story is one of resilience, hard work and community spirit.” 
“We cannot wait to see it flourish,” Cerrone added.

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caption:
Ribbon Cut
Town and PBA officials help the family cut the ribbon at Boho Beauty Bar. More photos Wed. night on our FB page. Linda Lemmon photo.