Special to the Reporter

The Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce Small Business Season.

New this year, the Chamber is launching a program to support small business. Beginning on Nov. 1, the Chamber will kick off its marketing efforts with Thankful for Local Bingo. Throughout the holiday shopping season, the Chamber is encouraging consumers to “think small” and earmark at least part of their holiday spending in support of local small business.

Mercer Island Chamber’s CEO Jen Dean shared, “Small business is the backbone of our economy. 64% of our new jobs in the U.S. come from small business. When people spend their dollars locally, more money stays local. On average, for every $100 sent locally, $68 of that stays here.”

Dean added about the global marketing campaign: “By implementing Small Business Season, we hope to encourage people to patronize all sorts of small businesses this holiday. In addition to our wonderful retail options, there are dining establishments, personal service providers, even local artisans that need our support. Small Business Season is a way to help our residents develop a better appreciation for how their spending affects our area and quality of life.”

In addition to increased marketing efforts, the Chamber is encouraging all businesses to participate in its efforts to raise awareness of how supporting small business improves the quality of life for the entire community.

“All businesses need one another. There’s a symbiotic relationship. But small business is the most endangered because many small businesses don’t operate with large cash reserves. When costs skyrocket, they feel it,” Dean noted.

As for bingo, which will occur from Nov. 1-30, locals can pick up cards at Island Books (3014 78th Ave. SE) or Island Treats (7605 SE 27th St. #106).

With card in hand, Islanders can visit the participating business on the card, complete the required item and receive a sticker. Bingos can be made horizontally, diagonally or vertically.

People can submit winning cards to the bingo card box at the Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce (7605 SE 27th St. #206) by Nov. 30. There will be a drawing each week for submitted cards for a $75 Metropolitan Market gift card. The grand prize drawing winner will be announced on Dec. 1.

Thankful for Local Bingo is sponsored by the Chamber and Puget Sound Energy.

For more information, visit: www.mercerislandchamber.com