You've made your list and checked it twice. Now, check again to see if what's on that list can be purchased locally. Buying holiday gifts or other items in our communities equates to more than a single purchase - it's an investment in our immediate economy.
Take for example the many instances cited in the cover story in Section E of today's edition. Profits from area businesses not only help pay the salaries of our residents, but go to the support of nonprofit agencies that in turn enhance our quality of life. Main Line Books owner Vickie Roidt provides teacher organizations with gift certificates for their events, and promotes local authors by sponsoring book signings. Sue Pifer of Elkins Sewing Center is a longtime supporter of United Way of Randolph County. Other merchants and their employees give to the arts and youth organizations. They also contribute to the local tax base. All of that keeps churning through our communities.
Specifically, Ann Beardslee, a member of the Artists at Work co-op, points to studies that show each dollar spent at a locally owned store is circulated six times within the community before the money leaves.
The old adage of "Charity begins at home" couldn't be more true in these situations. This holiday season, and throughout the year, think about where your dollar is going and coming back around. Shopping locally is the logical choice.
