“It’s beginning to look at lot like Christmas….” “Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way…” “Away in a Manger, no crib for a bed…” Oh Christmas music, Christmas lights, Christmas festivities! Needless to say, I absolutely love Christmas time. In face, I asked my husband the other day if I could begin decorating this week and he sweetly requested I wait a few weeks… at least with the outside decorations that our neighbors could see.

Why do I love Christmas so much? I love the festivities, the family events, decorations and, from a personal standpoint, the reason for celebration.

However, no matter your holiday traditions, the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce encourages you, throughout this holiday season to remember, as you celebrate, the importance of those yellow “Buy Local First” decals on a variety of businesses throughout the county.

Why is it important to shop within Sampson County? Sampson County only receives sales tax revenues from purchases made within the county. Think about it: when we purchase from outside the county, we are helping keep county taxes and property 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 know that for some, it will need to be a conscious effort to shop completely local; however I encourage you to make your Buy Local First Holiday Pledge.”What are you going to purchase locally in order to support Sampson County?

Audrey Whetten from the Sampson Planning Department stated: “I’m excited to make a Buy Local First pledge this season because I really enjoyed shopping for Christmas presents in Sampson County last year. There’s no question it takes a change in mindset to buy even the little things locally, but it really does make a difference when you do.

Just ask the business owners!” Ken Sutton from State Farm Insurance stated “All of the residents of Sampson County need to realize that when they support the local businesses they support themselves. Local businesses pay local taxes, support local churches, support local schools and athletic teams, and help make Sampson County a great place to live.”

So as you see those yellow stickers displayed around Sampson County, we hope you recognize that buying within Sampson County has great benefits and rewards for all. Be a part of the movement in Sampson County to “Buy Local First” and make your holiday pledge today on the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page!

Don’t know where to shop locally? Give us a call at the Chamber office, 592-6177, or visit our website at www.clintonsampsonchamber.org and we are proud to recommend our members.