SCOTT CITY HIGH SCHOOL BUSINESS CLUB KICKS OFF BY LOCAL EFFORT

SCOTT CITY -- It began as a business club project at the high school and turned into an annual boost for the local economy.

Area business owners say they can tell a difference when Buy Local week begins. The fifth annual campaign, sponsored by the Future Business Leaders of America, begins Monday.

About 30 businesses are participating in the weeklong event.

"I don't know if it's related or not, but we always get busier every year," said Linda McDonough, an employee at the Dollar General Store in Scott City.

Clara Mae Moore, owner of the IGA Foodliner, said she also notices additional business each year during the week. "It causes some extra enthusiasm," she said.

The campaign, which has won both state and national awards, emphasizes shopping at stores in Scott City to help support the community, FBLA officers say. A report detailing the week's activities will be entered in a state business competition next month.

"We've had good support over the years," said FBLA officer Neil Sanders, as he hung a Buy Local banner.

The five club officers hung seven banners throughout town this week to remind residents to shop locally.

Students are also consumers, said FBLA sponsor Pat Andrews. This year the club is trying to emphasize to students the importance of shopping locally. For every $50 accumulated in local store receipts, students can enter a school drawing.

Chamber of Commerce President Shirley Young said the program makes people more aware about local businesses.

"We all shop other places but we need to support our local businesses," she said. "It shows how important sales tax is to our community."