It is hard to believe that Christmas is next week. I know many of you are in full swing with holiday festivities, company parties, volunteering, and much more. The holiday season is a time for memories, laughter, celebration, not to mention, New Year’s resolutions.

Each year, as many of you, I make the New Year’s resolution to go to the gym more or run outside each morning. Some years I feel ambitious and state that I will eat more vegetables, and if you know me, you know I’m not a big vegetable fan. However, I challenge you to begin thinking about a resolution that will impact where you live in Sampson County.

One resolution I encourage you to consider is the conscious effort to “Buy Local First.” While we stress the importance of buying local around the holiday season, the economic impact of each of our spending habits impact us year-round.

Consider making the resolution to not only remember the key reasons why is it important to shop within Sampson County but also take action upon it. Sampson County only receives sales tax revenues from purchases made within the county. Therefore, when we purchase from outside the county, we are helping keep other counties’ taxes down, while putting ourselves at risk for a property tax increase.

Also, did you know that for every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $73 remains in the local economy? Did you know that when you shop a locally-owned business, your money is re-circulated over and over and creates up to 75 percent more tax revenue to your community and state?

I also challenge the nearly 400 Chamber members throughout Sampson County to consider making the New Year’s resolution to get involved within the Chamber of Commerce. Take full advantage of your chamber membership filled with opportunities to network, attend seminars, advertise your business, and more. The Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce is the largest business network within Sampson County. If you are not a member, I encourage you to give us a call 910-592-6177 at the office and become involved. Also visit the Chamber website, www.clintonsampsonchamber.org. Be a part of the economic impact today!

From my family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. If we can ever do anything for you, please give us a call. Together, we can make a difference.