The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the Third Annual MontGOmery SHOPPING initiative in partnership with Downtown Blacksburg, Inc., the Town of Christiansburg and Montgomery County. Proclamations have been signed by Mayor Ron Rordam of Blacksburg, Mayor Mike Barber of Christiansburg, Chair William “Bill” Brown to encourage the support of shopping in our local businesses.
Robert Parks, 2015 Board Chair for the Chamber and Vice President at New River Bank had this to say, “This program supports and educates our local citizens, residents, and visitors on the value of local businesses in our community. Over 90% of all businesses in our community fall into the small category and we should support their success. When we shop on-line and fail to build relationships with our local businesses; it tears the very fabric of community. One of the many qualities that our residents and visitors like about our area is the quaint shops with unique items and authentic Southwest Virginia character. The goal is to engage our community members shop locally on November 28th. The Chamber will give away five (5) gifts valued at $100. The gifts are gift certificates from Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. and 4 – $100 Gift Cards. GO Shopping, spend some money, help our local business community, and possibly win some shopping money.”
Laureen Blakemore, Director of Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. shared “the local residents were very supportive of the local businesses last November. This year the VT vs UVA football game will be held in Charlottesville; this could affect the local crowds.” Blakemore is optimistic that those who decide to stay in town will come out and shop.
The Chamber and Downtown Blacksburg Inc., combined will have 60 businesses participating in 2015 which reflects a 47% increase over 2014. MontGOmery SHOPPING will distribute tickets to each of the participating small businesses. The tickets are available to the first 100 shoppers in the participating establishments (no purchase necessary). The tickets are returned to the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce for a drawing in early December to award the $500 just in time for the holidays.
Sponsors of the 2015 MonGOmery SHOPPING event are: American Express, Cumulus Media – Mix 100.7, Downtown Blacksburg, Inc., First Citizens Bank, First Community Bank, Freedom First, Green-Eyed Designs, National Bank, New River Bank, and The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce.
For a complete list of participating businesses, visit the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce at www.http.//montgomerycc.org or call 540.382.3020.
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, serves Blacksburg, Christiansburg and all of Montgomery County, supports approximately 700 local businesses through educational, marketing, and networking opportunities.
