Issue link: http://frankenmuthcvb.uberflip.com/i/1513356
18 •••• list! In Frankenmuth, we are blessed with an atypical amount of locally owned businesses. You may consider some of our businesses as "big" but the distinctly unique thing about Frankenmuth is the vested local ownership. Big or small, the overwhelming majority are owned by families that also live in our community. They attend church, school, grocery shop and volunteer in our town. This important detail sets our small community apart. Because, you see, our locally owned businesses are far more apt to support local community causes. Not because it will mean more sales for them, but because they want to be proud of the community in which they live and serve. They want to perpetuate a strong vibrant place that people continue to want to be for generations to come. This takes a lot of work, time and money. But because so many are local, they are able to physically see the positive impacts of their support. When the community looks beautiful, we're all proud. And when our children's sports, programs and activities are supported, it makes us hopeful for the future. When the churches are supported and have engagement, it helps make our community stronger. Shop Local. Support Local. Stay Local. By Jamie Furbush We may be a small town, but many from outside the area oen revel over what we accomplish. This is exactly why shopping local is so important. It's not about shopping local for the perfect gi (although it is fun to be able to shop places that people travel for hours to come explore) and as locals, we can do it on weekdays to avoid the crowds too. But it's more even more impactful during the slower times year when many shops aren't sustained by tourism. Frankenmuth is a four-season destination and would feel very different if our locally owned shops & restaurants closed for a season or two. So as you're enjoying all the things you love about living local in Frankenmuth, remember many of our blessings are made possible by the support of our locally owned businesses. As we look ahead to the new year, consider it a challenge to commit to shopping local first. Instead of shopping big box competition or even getting lured to an out of town financials institution or car dealership, consider giving the local business an opportunity to earn your business right in your own backyard.