Want to help the economy? Support local business

Everyone’s worried about the economy these days, and most of us feel like there’s not much difference we can make on the personal level.
But did you know that you can make a big difference in your local economy by supporting locally owned business of all kinds?

For example, a study conducted in 2007 showed that independent bok stores contributed $54 million annually into their local economies. Meanwhile, Internet and chain bookstores only contributed a fraction of that, at $8 million. Imagine how much bigger that number would have been if more people decided to support local bookstores.
The numbers are similar for all other types of business, from retail to big box home improvement.

Most importantly, doing business with local vendors increases the sense of community. Think of a time not that long ago when your parents or grandparents knew the owner of the local grocery store, and the store owner probably knew the farmers whose products he sold.

Many of Sure Temp’s customers have that kind of relationship with us, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Not only does it provide a sustainable business model that benefits the community, it also helps us ensure top-notch customer service, because we have the chance to really get to know our customers’ needs.

So the next time you need something, whether it’s a new furnace or a new book, ask yourself how you can shop locally.

Give Blood, Win a Chance at a Free Thermostat

Sure Temp is supporting the Red Cross blood drive by offering all donors a chance to win a free programmable thermostat.

The blood drive will be from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday, April 27, and from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, April 28 in the lecture hall at Lourdes Hospital, 169 Riverside Drive.

Every person who donates will have a chance to win a programmable thermostat, which can help you save 10% or more on heating and cooling costs.

Maker an appointment to donate by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or going online to www.donateblood.org.