People are learning the importance of supporting small local businesses, Ginny Stewart, of BG
Hats and Apparel, told trustees of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce Friday.Stewart provided the
monthly business climate report from a retail perspective.She said the Small Business Saturday concept
promoted by American Express is making an impression with local consumers. "The difference has been
more notable this year. People are getting it." She cited studies that show 73 percent of the money
spent with a small business stays in the local community. "Local businesses give back more to the
community in the form of wages, taxes, rent and local marketing." She urged shoppers to help keep
dollars in the community.Stewart said it is important for small business owners to get to know one
another and share what they see their customers interested in and buying. "Shoppers want a
coupon." She suggested communicating with customers with a newsletter and noted the benefit of
invitations to special events.She said events like the community tree lighting provide good traffic and
said she is happy when she sees parking spaces filled along Main Street.Stewart said the Christmas
season often makes the difference but she also cited traffic generated by the Black Swamp Arts Festival
in September as being important in BG.Trustees also:Heard the chamber is finishing the year with a
strong financial position and approved the 2014 budget. Treasurer Sandy Milligan said the 2014 budget
includes no raises for the staff and no increase in dues. "We are taking our usually miserly
outlook," she said. President Bruce Stevens added that the staff has been granted a bonus in
recognition of their hard work during 2013.• Elected Michelle Evans, president; Milligan, vice
president; Pam Fahle, secretary; Jerid Friar – representative at large; Greg Kegler, treasurer and Bruce
Stevens, immediate past president for 2014.• Were reminded that the Christmas Elves program operated
through the chambers ACT BG group runs through Friday. Donations of toys, non-perishable food and cash
are appropriate.• Learned the annual meeting will be Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. in the Bowling Green State
University. The theme is "Advance to Go with BG." Invitations will be mailed later this
month.• Learned Winterfest 2014 will be Feb. 14-16 . New events are being planned.• Heard the next
meeting will be Jan. 10 in an effort to avoid holiday conflicts that might be caused by the normal first
Friday meeting date.