Downtown Shelbyville faced economic challenges typical of a small town even before the recession. Businesses compete for customers who've become more likely in recent years to take their money out of town to bigger cities.
But now, businesses like the Sheepish Grin Novelty Shop are trying something new. It's called Spend 20 on the 20th. The grassroots effort urges Shelby County residents to come out and spend 20 dollars on this Saturday, June 20th. Participating businesses are offering special sales that day to provide even more incentive. " As long as I get a handful of people that haven't been in before to check me out, I would be tickled to death." said owner Carole Pope.
The effort is being organized by the local Shelby County newspaper. It's also offering discounts on advertising to get the word out. " It's basically to get people out to your Mom and Pop local business and to support your community." said Publisher Rachel Raney.
About 40 Shelbyville businesses have signed up. If it works as planned, 20 on the 20th could generate an economic impact of up to half a million dollars. Enough to provide a much needed boost to the entire community.
But now, businesses like the Sheepish Grin Novelty Shop are trying something new. It's called Spend 20 on the 20th. The grassroots effort urges Shelby County residents to come out and spend 20 dollars on this Saturday, June 20th. Participating businesses are offering special sales that day to provide even more incentive. " As long as I get a handful of people that haven't been in before to check me out, I would be tickled to death." said owner Carole Pope.
The effort is being organized by the local Shelby County newspaper. It's also offering discounts on advertising to get the word out. " It's basically to get people out to your Mom and Pop local business and to support your community." said Publisher Rachel Raney.
About 40 Shelbyville businesses have signed up. If it works as planned, 20 on the 20th could generate an economic impact of up to half a million dollars. Enough to provide a much needed boost to the entire community.
