Happy Valley Pride: July 29, 2009

When I attended the "Fork to Field" program in June, I was given a flyer that I would like to share with you.

Cinda Baxter came up with a wonderful idea to help save your local economy three stores at a time. It is called the 3/50 project and is intended to help save small businesses in your community.

Here is how it works, think of three small businesses you would miss if they disappear. Go in and introduce yourself, then purchase something. That's what keeps them going. The 50 comes to play when 50 percent of the population spends $50 each month at these independent businesses. According to the U. S. Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, that spending pattern would generate $42,629,700,000 in revenues nationally during a year.

For every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. In a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home. The number of people it takes to start the trend is you. Save your local economy by buying locally. To find out more about the 3/50 Project, go to their Web site www.350project.net.

I have always believed in supporting local stores. I make it a habit to visit Country Market, the Buzz, Happy Valley Nursery, Discount Feed, Shasta Pizza, Bonny's Burgers and the Signman.

I know we have two other stores that could use your business - Happy Stop Market and Valley Market. The farmers on the Farm Trail would also appreciate your patronage, so get your map at the water company and support them and our advertisers.

How are you dealing with the heat?

Remember to drink lots of water, wear sunscreen, put on a hat, eat light meals and, if you can, stay inside. Be good to yourself, pray for our country, volunteer, recycle, and follow the golden rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."