Main Street Washington is reminding residents to shop small first today. Main Street is partnering with local businesses for the Pink Friday Event. Businesses around the city of Washington will sport pink bows Friday to show that they have special deals for shoppers. Washington Chamber of Commerce Director Michelle Redlinger spoke with KCII News about how shopping local helps the community. “You realize how much it keeps the community alive. Our businesses are helping the local athletic teams, and the schools, they’re donating to different non-profits. They are taking a portion of their proceeds and investing it and the taxes they pay get invested back in the community. The effort you make to get out and shop local, you find products that you know the quality, and if there’s ever a problem, you’ve got great customer service. I just think it feels good. It feels good to know that you’re part of this community and your choices are not only helping this business owner but, you’re helping the kids, you’re helping these non-profits and it all circles around.”

A list of businesses participating in the Pink Friday event is available on the Washington Chamber of Commerce events calendar online.