To the Editor:
I must begin this note with an apology since I have used this before (10 years ago) but since it still holds true, why not ?
Each year about this time when I start to see different groups planning trips to see the decorations and lights in other communities and do a little shopping, I put out my annual appeal to encourage people to shop locally, actually I encourage it all year, and not just for gifts but for all goods and services.
The biggest complaint you usually hear is that local prices of goods and services are higher and the selection is compromised when compared to bigger cities. I will admit that everything you may want is not available but everything you need surely is available in Kewanee.
Studies from major universities and marketing companies compare the price differences of many items and can show that, while a slight savings might be in the favor of the larger communities when compared item to item, it did not factor into account the driving time, fuel costs and automobile wear and tear.
The Federal government currently allows 67 cents per mile for work related travel, with a 100 mile round trip to Peoria or the Quad Cities adding the $67.00 to that washer, microwave, home improvement item or that light blue cable knit sweater that everyone wants, do you really save? I think not.
When you add in that it is the local store owners large and small along with their employees who support so many of our school, church and civic programs with raffles, chili suppers and cash donations it’s nice to see their investment in the community being returned. What would happen if our local businesses decided not to support or post flyers or donate to fundraisers? The cost would most likely come out of our own pockets.
Also, as I have reported many times over the years, our city benefits when purchases are made locally as sales tax are returned to the community. Each time a purchase is made in Peoria or the Quad Cities their local politicians say thank you for helping fix their pot holes.
I also must mention a great gift is a Kewanee Chamber of Commerce gift certificate. They encourage local buying; they can be used at many different businesses including gas stations, restaurants, retail stores and for other goods and services.
So as we begin the Christmas shopping season please remember the locals, because it helps all of us in the community.
Mark Mikenas
Executive Director
Kewanee Chamber of Commerce
