JEFFERSONVILLE, NY — Almost a decade ago, researchers looked at 10 communities to find out whether there really were economic benefits to shopping locally.

The Chicago-based study found that small, locally owned businesses “bring substantial benefits to their local economies when compared to their chain competitors. The extra dollars in the local economy produce more jobs for residents, extra tax revenues for local governments, more investment in commercial and residential districts, and enhanced support for local nonprofits. In short, locally owned, independent businesses create better places.”

Just look at the small, local businesses that line the streets of Jeffersonville.

Even in a pandemic, doors are open and shops have customers. Folks eat sweets at the Jeff Bakery, they buy toys and Christmas joy at the Secret Garden, they dine at the myriad local restaurants.

All our communities have so much to offer. Skip the big box stores and pay them a visit.