LaFayette, GA – Walker County Commissioner Shannon Whitfield issued a proclamation naming today as Small Business Saturday in Walker County.  Whitfield encourages all citizens and visitors to Walker County to participate by supporting local stores, businesses, restaurants and other independent merchants.

Angela Drake from Magnolia Treasures and Kim Carlock from That’s So Mimi Boutique joined Walker County Chamber President Lacey Wilson to accept the proclamation. Both LaFayette based stores will be open on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday this year.  Several local businesses in downtown Chickamauga will also be participating.

Small businesses provide employment for nearly half of America’s workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Along with retailers and restaurants, small businesses include service based operations, like event and lodging venues, hair salons, heating and air companies, insurance agencies, lawn care and pest control.

A recent small business impact study found 67-cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local community.

Owners of small businesses contribute to the community by supporting school programs, sponsoring youth sports teams, participating in local events and donating to area non-profit organizations.