For the past year or more we’ve read and heard stories on an almost daily basis about the poor state of the economy. There is no doubt these issues have trickled down and touched our lives — from our personal investments to our own business dealings.

Titus Workman The Daily Herald Publisher Advertisement

But at some point, it’s time to stop talking about a weak economy and tough times and do something about the situation.

So, what can we do about it?

I take the role our newspaper plays in our community seriously. And I’ve seen the power of the newspaper in action many times in my 34-year career.

That’s why The Daily Herald is extending a challenge to Roanoke Valley residents: Spend $20 on the 20th of February on local goods and services you would not have otherwise purchased that day. This is an opportunity for us to create a sense of taking back control of our local economy.

Don’t think that’s enough to make a difference? Consider this: If every adult in Halifax and Northampton counties spent an extra $20 on February 20th, which would pump more than $1.1 million into the local economy!

Every day, local residents go online or drive to nearby cities and spend money on goods and services that are available right here at home. It can take a huge toll on an economy.

If we everyone made a concerted effort to rethink our spending habits and make more purchases from local businesses, imagine what could happen.

For our part, The Daily Herald will offer small ads to local businesses at essentially our cost to produce the page. For just — you guessed it — $20, an advertiser will receive an business card-sized ad to tell local shoppers how they can spend their extra $20 on the 20th. We will encourage participating businesses to highlight the effort in their marquees or other signs. And we will print stickers for people to paste on their shirts proclaiming their participation in the big day.

Keep watching The Daily Herald for a series of stories and reminders between today and Feb. 20, and make sure you check out the issues of Feb. 18 and Feb. 19 for participating businesses.

Then on Saturday, Feb. 20 go out and spend $20, with participating vendors or any other local businesses!

And remember to have fun with this challenge.

Titus Workman

Publisher

The Daily Herald