Presidents Article - November

Holiday Gifts?  They’re all right here!

You know how e-mails are?  We are constantly bombarded with jokes, cute pictures, pass a long’s and occasionally something truly important.  The other day I received this picture with the caption, “Men who lack supervision”.  

Some men (people in general) have too much time on their hands or try to save time and money.  One example is the time people try to save during the Holiday season shopping online in hopes of finding a great price on common Items.  I see no real problem trying to find the best price on items, but when things are found from some supplier outside the Chamber service area, I do find the practice somewhat problematic for several reasons.

First, the Chamber is all about buying locally to support neighborhood business persons, retaining jobs in the community, and increasing tax revenues for municipalities.  An online purchase from sources outside the vicinity supports none of these objectives.  Our communities are only as strong as its local government, its schools, its businesses and its citizens working together.  

Second, online purchases eliminate the customer service aspect.  Whether you are shopping for retail products or browsing the areas service providers, Chamber members give extra value by providing their expert advice, allowing you to actually inspect merchandise before the purchase, make plain their return policy and most importantly, they stand behind the products and services they sell - and they will even gift wrap your purchase.

Third, local businesses provide unique products.  Our retail shops provide clothing, kitchenware, and locally logoed merchandise.  Everything from A-Z may be found right in this locality.  If you need brand new railroad ties, you can now purchase them in downtown Kirkwood from a nationally known supplier headquartered right here.  If it’s a service you need, we can provide it.  Just visit www.kirkwooddesperes.com to get a complete listing of members ready to assist you with your unique gift.

Would you just give us a try this Holiday season?  Save by eliminating high shipping costs, the hassle of waiting for delivery and unfriendly return policy’s.  Look no further than your Chamber directory for that special gift.  You will be happy you did...plus you’ll be doing what’s best for this wonderful community we call home.