Support one another: shop locally | Editorial
Published 12:36 pm Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Before you are standing in line at that big department store, Christmas gifts flung across your arms, we want you to take a moment to think about where your dollars are going.
We can’t say which foreign manufacturer is benefiting from your hard-earned cash, but we can say where your money is not going: to your community.
The best way to keep our islands thriving is to support local businesses.
“Shop Local surveys indicate that two-thirds of a dollar spent locally stays in your community,” Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce director Lance Evans told the Sounder.
The chamber will again host “Shop the Rock” weekend on Dec. 2-3, with terrific sales, drawings for $200 in cash prizes for shoppers, and a treat-laden tree lighting on Dec. 3.
Eastsound merchants are also hosting an event on Dec. 10 with stores open late, sales and events for kids.
It’s a wonderful reminder of what incredible items are available right here without the hassle and expense of a ferry ticket.
Also consider gift certificates. Everyone gets their hair cut. Many people love receiving a therapeutic massage. How about a membership to the health club or other fitness studio? An oil change? Dinner out at a restaurant or coffee from a local cafe? One week’s worth of cleaning services?
Don’t forget the myriad of locally crafted items, ranging from jewelry to art to culinary treats. Check out the two holiday fairs this weekend (see page 3 for details) for a showcase of our island’s bounty.
We understand there are some big ticket items that simply cannot be found on the island. But for everything else – and there is a lot – look for what you need right here. It is one of the greatest gifts you can give to the place you call home.
Upcoming opportunities to shop Orcas Island
• ‘Shop the Rock’ weekend, with $200 in cash prizes for shoppers, Dec. 2 to 3.
• ‘‘Great Santa Saturday,” Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., sales, promotions, cookie decorating, photos with Santa, storytime and cider.
