Our Opinion: Shop locally; boost our community

Shopping locally benefits both customers and community.

Bargain hunters who shop elsewhere may find themselves among consumers described by the axiom, "penny wise and pound foolish," which emphasizes the irony when small-scale frugality is overshadowed by greater extravagance. (The "pound" - incidentally - refers to the unit of British currency, once worth 240 pennies, or pence).

The multiple virtues of shopping locally avoid that pitfall. Here are three reasons:

Enjoy convenience and customer service. Unlike cyber-shopping, local shoppers get to see, touch and even try on merchandise before the sale.

They avoid the frustration and delays involved in returning shipments that are not the color, size or quality they expected to received.

As Sam Bushman, owner of Samuel's Tuxedos and Gifts, explained, customers "get personal service, and we're actually happy to see them. We wait on them, we gift wrap - that's what makes it nice for them."

Enhance local government service. Customers who buy local merchandise also help improve Jefferson City parks, enhance ambulance services in Cole County, and finance capital improvements in both the city and county.

Local half-cent sales taxes include: municipal taxes for capital improvements and parks and recreation; and county taxes for capital improvements, law enforcement and ambulance service.

Taxes on local purchases translate into improved infrastructure and greater services for local residents.

Help merchants help the community. When volunteers attempt to raise funds for local churches, charities and youth programs, they don't solicit online stores; they approach local merchants. And local businesses have established a rich tradition of responding generously.

The recent area United Way campaign that exceeded its $1.8 million goal is only one example of how businesses and their employees give back to our community.

In advance of Small Business Saturday this weekend, Susie Schaefer Hinds, owner of The Schaefer House, said: "People really, truthfully want to help their communities. Knowing how much goes back to your community from small businesses makes people more aware of that. They have kids who are playing on ball teams, they have charity groups that they know these small businesses help, so they want to give back and support and shop locally."

During the holiday shopping season, the buying power of local consumers can provide an enormous boost for community.

When shoppers avail themselves of the convenience and services provided by local merchants, they help those businesses thrive and create more jobs while extending government infrastructure and services.

Be a positive force for the community. Shop locally.