The 3/50 project involves an individual stopping at three of the independent businesses you would miss if they were not there. The 50 stands for spending $50 in your favorites haunts. Just think of the impact of this project is just one half of the population did that.
As recently featured in the Suburban Life, Teri Tabor, formerly of La Grange Park, incorporates this philosophy into her business in Riverside. Having done hair in her home for many years, Tabor opened a salon in downtown Riverside sic and a half years ago - Salon D'Amore located at 37 E Burlington St. When she was asked to speak at the Riverside Junior Women's Charity group, Tabor was trying to encourage people to shop locally.
"I came up with a shopping bag program: 'Love Riverside, Shop Riverside.' I wanted to give Riverside businesses a chance. Even if you don't come into my salon to get your hair done, you might come in for a manicure. You might not do all of your grocery shopping at Riverside Foods, but you can run in and try their lunchmeat or cheese."
The bags are a burlap and bright yellow design and sell for $5 each - clearly a bargain, as each bag includes ten coupons giving discounts and free items with purchase at some of the businesses in Riverside.
I have long been a proponent of shopping locally. Individuals with families own our local establishments - not huge conglomerates who are trying to improve their bottom line. According to the 3/50 project, for every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 remains here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.
Take a tour of our local businesses - both La Grange and La Grange Park. Pick up a little something. That is what will keep our businesses around.
