Jackson County Chamber of Commerce says 'Shop Local'

“We have so many wonderful folks who have invested in our community,” Chamber Secretary Rayna O’Dell said. “Who else do our local charities, sports and school groups go to for sponsorships and help except for our local businesses?”

O’Dell points out there is also a great economic reason to buy as much as possible in Jackson County.

“The time and gas it takes to go to Parkersburg and Charleston can be quite expensive,” she said. “And we have so many unique and wonderful places to shop here all over the county.”

As part of the “Shop Local” campaign, several businesses will be offering a chance to win some prizes. In addition, every entry in the business drawings will also be eligible for a $250 gift card from the Chamber of Commerce.

Participants are Farmers Feed ($50 gift certificate), Jackson Newspapers (1-year subscription), Man Cave & Apparel ($50 gift certificate), Mighty Shine (car wash), Vail Furniture ($100 gift certificate), Fairplain Yacht Club ($50 gift certificate), WMOV Radio (variety), United Bank ($75 gift card), First Federal Savings and Loan ($50 gift card). Other sponsors with entry forms for the Chamber gift card include Peoples Bank, Ravenswood Federal Credit Union and WesBanco.

Shopping local is a personal experience for O’Dell, one that she says can’t be found online or by going out of town.

“Many times I have gone to Ravenswood Floral and Gifts and told owner Lisa Duncan that I need a gift and have no idea what to choose,” she said. “Lisa will take me through the store, suggesting items because she truly cares about what I need, and I always leave satisfied. That is the shop local experience.”

For those who live, work and own businesses in the county, it’s also a personal experience.

Farmers Feed has served the community with farming and other needs for many years as a family-owned business.

“For us, we want to make sure our customers know and understand how to use the products we sell,” Cinda Francis said. “Our goal is satisfaction, but we also want to see folks succeed in their farming and gardening endeavors.”

It is estimated that 68 percent of the money spent in the community is re-invested through employment, supplies and other means.

“When you shop here, you are keeping money here, creating jobs and helping provide a tax base that supports our schools, our charities and our economy in general,” O’Dell said. “All of this adds up to a stronger, healthier and more vibrant community. Shopping locally matters.”

Drawings for the prizes will take place on Monday, November 27 and winners will be contacted.