Event encourages small business

Many folks in Sisters Country make a point of supporting local businesses during the holiday season, doing all their Christmas shopping in town.

The "shop local" movement is linked to a national effort this weekend with "Small Business Saturday" on Saturday, November 24. The event encourages shopping locally in Sisters' own unique, owner-operated, small businesses.

Small businesses are a vital part of the fabric of the Sisters community, and the current economic climate has challenged those businesses.

"Small Business Saturday is a great way to encourage shopping in Sisters' locally owned, independent businesses and support Sisters Country," said Erin Borla, executive director of the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce.

Small Business Saturday was spearheaded by American Express in 2010. The event was created to help small businesses get more exposure during one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year. Last year, on the Saturday that falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, over 100 million people came out to shop at independently owned small businesses. Now, in its third year, the organizers are hoping for an even bigger turnout.

According to American Express, "As a consumer, you are a key part in helping small businesses thrive. By shopping or dining at a small business this November 24, you're showing your support for all the small communities around you. This means you could be helping local entrepreneurs offer more jobs, which in turn invigorate the economy. This year, go out and support your favorite small business and search for savings on unique merchandise while experiencing spectacular service - a cornerstone of many small businesses."

This event reminds shoppers to "think small," especially on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year.

"We hope that members of the Sisters community will use this program as an opportunity to get into businesses they may not have had a chance to visit," Borla said. "And we hope that shopping locally doesn't end come closing time on November 24. We would like to encourage people to please continue to think local first - after all, our local businesses are the support system for Sisters Country throughout the year; the schools, local events, arts and music programs, athletics, the food bank and more."

For more information about Small Business Saturday, visit www.SmallBusinessSaturday.com.