Bonham, Texas -- You root for your hometown teams, but are you as quick to support your local businesses? Small businesses employ approximately 65% of U.S. workers and therefore make a dramatic impact on local economies. Proprietors often live nearby, shop nearby, pay taxes locally and participate in local community affairs.

Saturday, November 27 will be one of the busiest shopping days of the year and this annual event is known as "Small Business Saturday."  Shoppers are encouraged to support the local economy by spending holiday dollars in the fascinating antique stores, apparel shops, cafes and boutiques which give each town its unique appeal.

Have you ever considered all the reasons why shopping locally improves your community?

To start with, when you make a purchase from an independent, locally owned business -- as opposed to buying from nationwide chain stores -- there is a much greater chance that significantly more of your money will be used to make purchases from other local businesses. We all say we want a more vibrant community, but which communities are we investing in?

Small businesses employ approximately 65% of U.S. workers and therefore make a dramatic impact on local economies. Proprietors often live nearby, shop nearby, pay taxes locally and participate in local community affairs.

Bonham will have several shops open for Small Business Saturday.

photos by Allen Rich